Why Cannabis Makes You Laugh

We’ve all been there: Uncontrollable laughter, even when sober, is euphoric, and a great way to bond with new people and old friends alike. But, getting the giggles while high is a whole different animal. Cannabis can make you look at things in a completely different way, revealing the fun in the mundane and making even the most stone-faced of stoners crack up.

There’s no doubt that a hearty laugh is not only enjoyable, but also very good for you! But why does cannabis make you laugh? It would be easy to chalk it up to “just being high”, but is there more to it than just stoner lore? In this article, we take a look at the factors that contribute to those hilarious moments of unadulterated bliss.

LAUGH MORE, LIVE LONGER?

There are so many health benefits that laughter can provide, from reducing tension to boosting the immune system—even burning calories. Some evidence suggests there is actually a link between laughter and reduced risk of death, especially in women. This could be down to strengthening the heart, elevating the mood, and/or promoting a good night’s sleep.

FACTORS THAT MAKE YOU LAUGH

As we know, sense of humour is completely subjective and personal; something you would generally find funny, others may not. But why do we laugh? Research has shown that there is no single definitive “cause” for laughter. Instead, it involves numerous parts of the brain working together to provoke a reaction.

Starting with the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, these are responsible for processing humour. Other areas of the brain that control motor function, store memories, and interpret language/tone and logic all work together to provoke a reflex reaction that causes you to burst into laughter. As a result, endorphins are released, making you feel good and improving your overall mood. While it may seem strange to break down such a human response like laughing into impulses and functions, it is indeed the science behind the phenomenon.

Now that you have a better idea of why we laugh, and why it makes us feel good, it’s time to turn our focus to the question at hand: What role does cannabis play in provoking laughter?

CANNABIS INCREASES BLOOD FLOW TO THE BRAIN AND LIFTS YOUR MOOD

As mentioned, laughter is interpreted through the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain. Studies have shown that using cannabis increases blood flow to those regions, resulting in an overactive surge of brain activity that could lead to such uninhibited fits of laughter.

Moreover, THC’s stimulation of CB1 receptors in the brain catalyses the release of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin, which work together to encourage feelings of contentment, euphoria, and glee. Much like you would feel when exercising, eating, or falling in love, these neurotransmitters only serve to lift and improve your mood. Thus, increasing these chemicals in your brain could lower your inhibitions and boost your willingness to laugh.

LAUGHTER IS INFECTIOUS

Coupled with the previous factors, another reason behind those stoned laughing fits could be that it’s contagious! As smoking cannabis is often done in a social environment, you’re more than likely to be in a good mood already, sharing jokes and stories together between tokes. Much like yawning, if someone starts laughing, chances are you’re going to join in too, especially if you’re high. It’s just a reflex you can’t deny.

With increased blood flow to your brain and subsequent neurotransmitter release, it won’t take long to get the laughter going. Many stoners can regale you of countless times where they’ve been doubled-up crying; their abs and faces sore from laughing.

BEST CANNABIS STRAINS FOR LAUGHING

Along with the other points mentioned, setting plays a large role in inspiring stoned giggle fits. Situate yourself in a comfortable environment with people you like, and enjoy. But what else can you do to maximise the laughter? Are there certain strains you can look out for to get the giggles going? Absolutely!

The more sativa-dominant options include Laughing Buddha and Liberty Haze. Both offer up an energetic and euphoric high that translates well to social situations, allowing the laughs to flow freely between you and your mates.

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Laughing Buddha (Barney's Farm) feminized

(13)

Parents: Thai x Jamaican

Genetics: 30% Indica / 70% Sativa

Flowering Time: 11-12 weeks

THC: 18%

CBD: 0-1%

Flowering Type: Photoperiod

If you’re looking for a more relaxing high but don’t want to lose the good vibes, check out indica-dominant strains such as Pineapple Express and Maple Leaf. Each provides a relaxing full-body high that will chill you out and put you at the mercy of any passing joke.

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Pineapple Express Auto (Barney's Farm) feminized

(37)

Parents: Pineapple Chunk x BF Super Auto #1

Genetics: Ruderalis/Indica/Sativa

Flowering Time: 10-11 weeks from seed to harvest

THC: 15%

CBD: Unknown

Flowering Type: Autoflowering

Want more options? You’re in luck! Zamnesia has put together our Top 10 Cannabis Strains That Cause The Giggles.

And there you have it; some clarity behind the uncontrollable laughter you experience when smoking cannabis. Now all you need to do is take your pick of the strains we've suggested, invite your friends over, and prepare yourself for big laughs.

Luke Sumpter

With a BSc (Hons) degree in Clinical Health Sciences and a passion for growing plants, Luke Sumpter has worked as a professional journalist and writer at the intersection of cannabis and science for the past 7 years.

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