Why Cannabis Makes You Laugh

We've all been there: Uncontrollable laughter, even when sober, not only makes you feel euphoric but is a great way to bond with new people and old friends alike. Still, getting the giggles while high is an entirely different experience. Cannabis can make you look at things in a new light, revealing the fun in even the most mundane objects and making the most serious-faced of stoners crack up.

There's no doubt that a hearty laugh is enjoyable, but it's also very good for your mood and health! Still, 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 folklore? In this article, we look at the factors that contribute to those hilarious moments of unadulterated bliss.

Laugh more, live longer?

Laughter can provide many health benefits, from reducing tension to boosting the immune system—even burning calories. In a study from 2021 (Akimbekov & Razzaque, 2021), there is actually a link between laughter and a reduced risk of death, especially in women. This could be down to strengthening the heart, elevating the mood, and promoting a good night's sleep.

Why do we laugh?

As we all know, a sense of humour is entirely 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 this unique reaction.

It all starts with the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain, as these are responsible for processing humour. Other areas of the brain that control motor function, store memories, and interpret language and tone all work together to provoke a reflex reaction that causes you to burst into laughter. As a result, the brain releases chemicals called endorphins, 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, chemicals 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?

How cannabis can lift your mood

As mentioned, the brain interprets laughter 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 uninhibited fits of laughter.

THC and dopamine

THC promotes the activation of the CB1 receptors in the brain and stimulates the release of neurotransmitters such as 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 quickly 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 simply 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 between tokes, in the presence of people you like. Much like yawning, if someone starts laughing, chances are you're going to join in, 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 with countless times when they've been doubled-up crying, their abs and faces sore from laughing.

Best cannabis strains for laughing

While the setting you're in and the company you are with play a significant role in inspiring stoned giggle fits, you may be wondering if there's anything else you can do to maximise the laughter. Are there certain strains you can look out for to really get the giggles going? Absolutely! We've picked out three varieties that are sure to do the trick. Check them out.

Laughing Buddha (Barney's Farm)

The clue is very much in the name: Laughing Buddha is an award-winning sweet sativa hybrid renowned for bringing light-heartedness to any smoking session. Expect massive belly laughs that will make you look like the namesake in no time. Coupled with sweet, exotic flavours, this Buddha makes every session a mind-blowing one.

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Laughing Buddha (Barney's Farm) feminized

(31)

Parents: Thai x Jamaican

Genetics: 30% Indica / 70% Sativa

Flowering Time: 11-12 weeks

THC: 18%

CBD: 0-1%

Flowering Type: Photoperiod

Amnesia Haze Automatic (Zamnesia Seeds)

This easygoing autoflower is both potent and massively flavourful, making it an excellent choice for grinning from ear to ear. Boasting spicy and sweet flavours that culminate in a strong, cerebral high, Amnesia Haze Automatic will have you belly laughing in no time. And the best part? All it takes is 10–11 weeks from seed to harvest to be rewarded with award-winning buds.

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Amnesia Haze Automatic (Zamnesia Seeds) feminized

(169)

Parents: Amnesia Haze x Ruderalis

Genetics: Sativa-dominant Auto

Flowering Time: 10-11 weeks from seed to harvest

THC: 18%

CBD: 3%

Flowering Type: Autoflowering

Pineapple Express Auto (Barney's Farm)

Pineapple Express Auto is a pint-sized plant with a potent punch. Users can expect intense, upbeat sensations that’ll open up the floodgates to happy tears before they know it. With strong, sweet pineapple and skunky flavours shining through, Pineapple Express Auto is perfect for when you just want to kick back with friends and laugh the night away.

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Pineapple Express Auto (Barney's Farm) feminized

(56)

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.

Get giggling with ganja

And there you have it: some clarity behind the uncontrollable laughter you may experience when smoking (or consuming) 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. We wish you an enjoyable evening!

Adam Parsons

Professional cannabis journalist, copywriter, and author Adam Parsons is a long-time staff member of Zamnesia. Tasked with covering a wide range of topics from CBD to psychedelics and everything in between, Adam creates blog posts, guides, and explores an ever-growing range of products.

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