Introducing a sense of joy, light-heartedness, and often, a case of the giggles, certain cannabis strains have become the go-to choice for users seeking a cheerful and amusing experience.
Among the awesome reactions that weed can bring, from relaxation to heightened senses, why is it that particular strains seem to tickle our funny bone more than others?
Strain Name | Type | Description |
---|---|---|
Laughing Buddha | Sativa | Uplifting, joyous, ideal for social interactions |
Pineapple Express | Hybrid | Energetic, creative, perfect for a burst of euphoria |
OG Kush | Hybrid | Relaxing, stress-relieving, known for happy highs |
History of smoking weed and laughter:
- Cannabis has long been associated with feelings of relaxation and euphoria, often leading to laughter and giggling as common side effects. The plant contains THC which can induce a uplifted, happy mood.
- In ancient India, cannabis was referred to as “Vijaya” meaning “victorious” and was connected to laughter and happiness in early Hindu texts.
- During the hippie movement in the 1960s, cannabis was popularized as a recreational drug promoting spiritual enlightenment, free thinking, and communal laughter. “Laugh-In” comedy shows reflected the cannabis culture and aimed to entertain those using it.
- Research suggests THC activates the brain’s endocannabinoid system, leading to dopamine release which regulates humor and laughter. This may explain why cannabis can spur fits of laughter when used recreationally.
- The term “marijuana” itself was popularized in the early 1900s by those wanting to associate it with Mexican immigrants and negative racist stereotypes depicting Mexicans as lazy and laughable.
- Today many consider cannabis a tool for promoting mental health and social bonding through shared laughter and comedy. Dispensaries often brand products with lighthearted names celebrating the giggling effects.
- However, overuse can lead to paranoid thinking which counters the social nature of laughter. Responsible use remains important.
Statistics related to weed and laughing:
Statistic | Data |
---|---|
Cannabis users reporting more laughter | 68% |
THC shown to increase laughter at 15-30 mg | 2010 study |
Cannabis alters brain function related to mood | 2013 research |
“Happy feeling” motivates use | 67% users |
33% users report feeling happy | Gallup poll |
Understanding the Giggles: Why Certain Weed Strains Make You Laugh
Before we jump into specific strains, it’s important to unravel the science behind why we laugh when we consume cannabis. Laughter may seem like a simple response, but it’s a complex emotional reaction triggered by various components found in cannabis, primarily cannabinoids like THC and CBD, and aromatic terpenes.
- THC and Brain Chemistry: Tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive titan in cannabis, plays a crucial role. Upon consumption, THC travels through your bloodstream and into your brain, binding with cannabinoid receptors. This binding process can boost the levels of dopamine, the “feel-good” neurotransmitter, thereby elevating mood and, often, inducing bouts of laughter.
- The Role of Terpenes: Beyond cannabinoids, cannabis plants are rich in terpenes, the aromatic compounds that give each strain its unique scent and flavor. Certain terpenes have been shown to promote relaxation and stress-relief, indirectly encouraging a lighter mood and more frequent laughter.
- Set and Setting: The environment and context in which you consume cannabis can significantly influence your reaction. Sharing cannabis in a social setting with funny movies or joyful company can lead to shared laughter and heightened effects from synergistic social cues.
5 Top Strains Known for Spreading Joy and Giggles
Now that we understand the basics of why cannabis often has us in stitches, let’s explore some strains that users often turn to for a good time filled with laughter.
- Laughing Buddha: As the name implies, Laughing Buddha is your go-to strain for a joy-filled experience. This award-winning sativa is renowned for its ability to uplift moods, potentially leading to euphoria and hearty laughter. Its sweet, citrusy aroma complements the cheerful experience, making it perfect for social gatherings.
- Pineapple Express: Known to many due to its namesake movie, Pineapple Express has a fruity, tropical blend that reflects its upbeat effects. This long-lasting, energetic strain can stimulate giggles, making it ideal for a day filled with humorous activities or a fun night with friends.
- Strawberry Cough: The distinctive strawberry scent and flavor aren’t the only things that make Strawberry Cough stand out. It’s particularly celebrated for its ability to ease social anxieties and produce happy, uplifting effects. The result? Uninhibited laughter that makes everything seem hilarious.
- Blue Diesel: A balanced hybrid, Blue Diesel offers a mild, relaxing high without heavy sedation. Its ability to induce a happy and euphoric state of mind often leads to consumers finding themselves in a giggle-filled haze, enjoying everything around them with a happy-go-lucky attitude.
- OG Kush: A legendary strain that serves as the genetic backbone for many popular hybrids, OG Kush is known for its stress-relieving properties. It provides a heavy, euphoric high that often leads to spontaneous laughter, especially in group settings where the vibe is contagious.
15 More Weed Strains that’ll Make You Laugh Til Your Belly Hurts:
- Sour Diesel: This invigorating sativa-dominant strain is known for its pungent scent and energizing effects. Consumers often experience bouts of creative thinking, euphoria, and yes, uncontrollable giggles.
- Granddaddy Purple: Though an indica that’s typically associated with relaxation and sedation, Granddaddy Purple’s euphoric effects can sometimes lead to a case of the giggles before the tranquil effects take over.
- Jack Herer: Named after the cannabis rights activist, this sativa-dominant strain provides a cerebral elevation that often results in a happy, bubbly feeling accompanied by laughter.
- Girl Scout Cookies (GSC): Popular for its euphoric high, GSC boosts your mood and often leads to an amused state, with everything seemingly funnier than usual.
- Green Crack: Don’t let the name fool you; Green Crack is a sativa-dominant cannabis strain that provides an invigorating mental buzz, often fostering a happy and slightly goofy mood.
- Durban Poison: This classic sativa is known for its energetic and uplifting effects. Users often find themselves in a state of lightheartedness where jokes seem funnier, and laughter comes easily.
- Cherry Pie: Known for its sweet scent and flavor, Cherry Pie delivers a euphoric high that keeps you alert, often followed by giggle fits.
- Alaskan Thunder Fk (ATF): With its strong sativa genealogy, ATF provides a powerful cerebral experience, often leading to an uptick in mood and a case of the giggles.
- Mango Kush: The sweet tropical flavors hint at the happy, uplifting effects of this strain. Mango Kush is known to induce laughter, especially in social settings.
- Lemon Haze: The fresh lemon scent matches the lively buzz provided by this strain. Users report enhanced mood and often a tendency to find humor in things more readily.
- Chemdawg: Renowned in cannabis circles for its potent effects, Chemdawg can produce a cerebral experience that may translate into a happy, laugh-filled time.
- Trainwreck: Though it hits hard and fast, Trainwreck often leaves users feeling happy and euphoric, with a propensity towards laughter.
- Blue Dream: A beloved choice for a relaxed yet happy high, the sweet berry aroma and delightful euphoria of Blue Dream often lead to a bubbly mood.
- Purple Haze: With its dreamy burst of euphoria, Purple Haze often puts users into a contented headspace where laughter and joy are easy to come by.
- Super Silver Haze: This award-winning strain is cherished for its uplifting effects and the burst of happiness it provides, making for a laughter-filled experience.
Remember, while all these strains have the potential to make you laugh, individual reactions can vary widely due to factors like current mood, environment, and personal body chemistry. Always approach with your comfort level in mind, especially if you’re relatively new to cannabis.
Daniel Levinson – Cannabis Biz Dev Consultant
10 years of cannabis biz dev and marketing experience. Consultant to many leading cannabis brands and startups.