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Do you ever find that you cannot stop laughing uncontrollably while smoking weed with your family or friends?
This is not something unique to you. Genuine giggly cannabis strains exist, leading people to get the giggles they feel like they can’t control. Moreover, marijuana often makes people feel happy or happier than before.
But why does weed make you laugh? In this guide, we discuss the notorious laughing high, why it happens, and some of the giggle weeds that are likelier to make you laugh.
Does Weed Make You Laugh More Than Usual?
Before discussing why so many of the 18% of American weed smokers giggle when they consume cannabis, what is laughter caused in the first place?
Firstly, neuroscientists cannot pinpoint a specific reason why we laugh. Instead, studies have shown that laughing is a complex motor reflex that triggers a base-triggered sense of humor.
It includes multiple areas of the brain:
- Memory
- Motor function
- Language
- Auditory interpretation
- Logic
What we do know from MRI scans is that humor is processed within the cerebral cortex, specifically in the frontal and temporal lobes.
Based on what we know about high laughing, cannabis’ interactions with the brain play a pivotal role in why people laugh in the first place. Naturally, the mechanism is more complicated than this, and we still don’t understand it fully.
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Why Does Weed Make You Laugh?
The strains that make you laugh do so partly because of the THC inside. As the primary psychoactive compound within weed, THC interacts with the brain and the endocannabinoid system. The latter contains countless receptors, with some present in the brain. When THC binds to a receptor, it results in a biological response.
Due to THC’s interactions with the brain and their impact on mood, it’s an obvious launchpad that feeling happier could also lead to you laughing.
But THC is only part of the equation. Other factors also contribute to why does weed make you laugh uncontrollably.
It’s a Reflex Action
Some have claimed that laughing is a reflex action caused by weed because you are altering your state of mind. When your state of mind changes, you experience a reflex action. In the case of marijuana, this is in the form of giggling.
While there’s no scientific evidence to back this assertion, another reason could also be that most people associate weed with giggling. With this in your mind, it’s natural that what you’re thinking might come true when your inhibitions drop.
On the other hand, this is only a theory. After all, not everybody begins laughing uncontrollably whenever they smoke weed.
You Become More Social
One of the reasons why most euphoric weed strains could make you laugh is that you become more comfortable and relaxed while surrounded by others.
Marijuana’s positive effects on anxiety are well-documented, with one study revealing that participants experienced a drop of 58% in anxiety and stress-related symptoms when smoking pot.
People who are more social and less anxious are likelier to feel happier and more relaxed, which naturally leads to laughter.
The same principle can apply when combining weed with alcohol, which isn’t recommended.
Using a Different Strain
All strains have different effects. Due to the unique combinations of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids, the results from each strain differ.
It’s why there are lists of the best edibles for giggles and certain well-known giggly strains of weed.
Like the effects of all cannabis strains, everyone is different. Some people find that they hit upon a specific favorite strain, whereas others prefer other strains. It really depends on your preferences.
Photo by Pavel Danilyuk
Terpenes That Make You Laugh
Terpenes also play a critical role in the effects of each cannabis strain. But what are terpenes, and which ones work best for laughing?
These compounds are what provide the aroma of a cannabis plant. Each strain of cannabis has a unique smell because of its terpene profile. So, what terpenes make you laugh?
Limonene
Limonene is the likeliest to make you laugh – and is the most well-known “happy terpene.”
It’s a highly common monoterpene found within various cannabis strains. It provides all cannabis strains with a citrusy smell and is known for improving mood and reducing anxiety. Some of the top strains it can be found in include:
- Tangerine Dream
- Gelato
- Bubba Kush
Caryophyllene
This terpene is noted for its spicy profile, resulting in a peppery smell. It often has a calming effect, which is why it’s often found within different Indica strains. Within medical cannabis, it can be used to target hypomanic symptoms.
It can be found within:
- ACDC
- LA Kush Cake
- Sour Diesel
Myrcene
One of the other extremely common terpenes is the monoterpene myrcene. This sedative terpene can reduce anxiety, making it another favorite within Indica strains. It can also provide uplifting sensations, hence why it can be found in hybrid strains.
Only at higher concentrations is myrcene likely to cause giggling. Some of the strains you can find myrcene in include:
- Jillybean
- Blue Dream
- Harlequin
Linalool
Linalool is a secondary terpene that produces a calming, relaxing effect when infused into cannabis. When used correctly, it can also cause you to laugh.
Medical cannabis strains often contain high concentrations of linalool because of their proficiency in fighting anxiety and depression. Popular strains containing linalool include:
- Kosher Kush
- Granddaddy Purple
- Do Si Dos
Pinene
Pinene is another secondary terpene known for its uplifting effects, especially when combined with limonene. They are often used to help with respiratory issues, asthma, and various allergies. You can find pipene in:
- Dutch Treat
- Jack Herer
- Strawberry Cough
Humulene
Humulene is yet another secondary terpene known for its earthy smell. It’s a stress reliever at heart, but it can also make us laugh. Some of its other effects include treating inflammation, dealing with appetite loss, and helping medical marijuana patients to cope with chronic pain.
Some of the popular strains containing humulene include the following:
- White Widow
- Pink Kush,
- Super Lemon Haze
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Does Indica Make You Laugh More?
Now that you know why weed makes you happy, it should be evident that the terpene profile is one of the most vital factors in whether you will laugh.
So, does Indica or Sativa make you laugh? Both can make you laugh, but it depends on the strain and the type of side effect you experience.
Indica is likelier to make you relaxed, so you’re less likely to feel a euphoric high and the accompanying giggles.
Does Sativa Make You Laugh More?
Sativa can also make you laugh. If you’re wondering, “What type of weed makes you feel euphoric?” then Sativa is likelier to get the job done because it’s energizing and uplifting. It’s also not going to make you feel tired or sedated.
Unfortunately, Sativa has a higher chance of making you laugh when experiencing feelings of euphoria or paranoia. In other words, it’s a different type of laughter that you may not particularly want to experience.
On the whole, Sativa is just as effective at making you laugh as Indica. You just have to choose the correct terpene profile.
How to Stop Laughing When High
Does weed make you happier? We know it does, but what if you want the laughter to stop? For some, it can become unnerving, or they may be high in public and don’t want to draw attention to themselves.
Whatever the reason, several tactics exist to stop your laughter in its tracks:
- Eat or drink a big glass of water.
- Think of something else.
- Turn up the music.
- Get up and walk around.
- Try a different strain.
All of these strategies can be used to reduce instances of uncontrollable laughter, whether smoking a joint or eating some edibles. In any case, everyone finds their own solutions to this problem.
What Strain Makes You Laugh the Most? 6 Best Giggly Strains
You know the answers to “Does weed make you happy?” and “Why does weed make you laugh?” but which strains are known for making you laugh the most?
If you’re feeling down and want something to laugh about alone or with a friend or family member, we will discuss the best strains for laughing.
Blue Diesel
Blue Diesel is one of the few Indica strains that has been proven to invite laughs time and time again. Creating from NYC Diesel and Blueberry, this gentle high is designed to last a few hours.
It still makes you functional, making it one of the only Indica strains you can reliably wake and bake with. This is also one of the rare strains that you can smoke all day and still get things done.
This is a delightful, smooth strain with clear berry undertones. We strongly recommend using this as a social smoking option because of its ability to generate euphoria and a calm atmosphere among your buddies.
Laughing Buddha
Laughing Buddha is one of the most notorious strains for causing laughter. Combined with Sativas imported from Jamaica and Thailand, this energizing strain has a strong citrusy flavor and has won awards in the past.
It has a distinctly tropical flavor and distinctive nutty notes, making it a rich and smooth option. The euphoria will hit after just a few tokes, making this great if you want to quickly ease a social interaction or initiate a free-flowing conversation.
After smoking some Laughing Buddha, it will take one mildly amusing comment for everyone to descend into hysterics.
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Durban Poison
While a blend called Durban Poison may make you think of anything but laughter, this is actually a classic, dank strain of cannabis with a hint of delectable licorice.
Its incredible history also begins with South African cannabis breeder Ed Rosenthal. The strain was created by crossing plants from a random bag of South African seeds before they were passed onto Mel Frank to fine-tune further. This would eventually result in Sam the Skunkman in Amsterdam finishing off what we know today as Durban Poison.
If you choose to smoke Durban Poison, you will immediately note a euphoric high that encourages creativity and socialness. Prepare to feel relaxed and chatty, which is why many refer to this as the cannabis version of espresso.
Deadhead OG
For a strain that’s guaranteed to leave you feeling pleasant and joyful, consider Deadhead OG. This hybrid strain was derived from Chemdawg 92 and SFV OG. It has a distinctively pungent smell mixed with pine, lemon, and wood.
The ideal scenario for a few tokes of Deadhead OG is a stand-up comedy show or a visit to the movies.
Super Lemon Haze
Super Lemon Haze is one of the most famous cannabis strains in the world today. It has won countless awards, beginning with the High Times Cannabis Cup in both 2008 and 2009. And it shouldn’t surprise anyone because it was created from Arjan’s Super Silver Haze, which also won the Cannabis Cup three years running from 1997.
As you would expect from the name, Super Lemon Haze has an intense citrus note that smells like you were sucking on a lemon. The high energizes and relieves anxiety, depression, and stress.
This great daytime smoke is an excellent way to tackle the day with a smile on your face.
Ghost Train Haze
Ghost Train Haze is another High Times Cannabis Cup winner. Ghost Train Haze quickly acquired a worldwide following after vanquishing the competition to become the leading Sativa.
You’ll first notice the twin smells of pine and spiced citrus. Like an OG smoke, this weed is smooth and incredibly potent. You’ll get to enjoy the random hilarity of smoking a giggly strain as well as the intense body high of an Indica.
Buy the Exact Strains You Want! Apply for a Medical Marijuana Card Today!
Knowing why weed makes you laugh can prepare you for finding the strains that give you the desired effects. But with a medical marijuana card, you can access even more potent strains and purchase in bulk at lower prices.
At Green Health Docs, we support you in finding out whether you qualify for an MMJ card and showing you how to apply in your state. If you’re wondering whether you qualify, contact Green Health Docs today.
This article has been reviewed by Dr. Anand Dugar, an anesthesiologist, pain medicine physician and the founder of Green Health Docs. Graduating from medical school in 2004 and residency in 2008, Dr. Dugar has been a licensed physician for almost 20 years and has been leading the push for medical cannabis nationwide.