Terpenes That Make You Laugh
Are there any greater times in life when you and your friends are laughing so much that no one can even make a sound? We’ve seen it in movies like “Harold and Kumar”, “Dazed and Confused”, “Cheech & Chong”, and pretty much anything with Seth Rogen. The uncontrollable and highly contagious giggle fits.
These are not your typical “haha, good joke” chuckles, it’s sometimes the most mundane thing or thought that sends you into a euphoric emotion of uncontrollable laughter. But… why? Is it how you smoke your weed? The strain of cannabis? Or is it the specific terpenes that make you laugh? Ready to find out?!
Probably one of the most-known sayings, “laughter is the best medicine”, is hands-down the truest statement ever. Times when you are down bad, having a rough day, or dealing with a funk of feeling stressy, messy, depressy. Laughter can be hard, but once you crack that smile, it’s like the curtains open and the sun shines brighter.Those times when you’re holding onto your sides and can’t catch your breath because you’re laughing so hard at something. For some people, these moments may be rare, but specific cannabis strains and certain terpene profiles can kick your dopamine into high gear.
You can’t be sad or angry while also laughing… unless you are really good at fake laughing. But, a hearty laugh is more than just a good time full of humor. Laughter is a natural way to boost your immune system by increasing the production of antibodies, reduce stress hormones, and increases endorphins.
THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is the primary ingredient in cannabis, known for its ability to induce the “high” feeling. THC directly interacts with our endocannabinoid system, an important part of our nervous system that controls various functions such as appetite, pain, mood, and emotions. When THC enters your bloodstream and engages with the receptors in your brain it enhances our response to funny, feel-good thoughts.
It doesn’t matter if you are consuming THC edibles, smoking a joint, or hitting your dab pen. Cannabis will actually increase blood flow to areas of the brain associated with laughter, such as the cerebellum, right frontal lobe, and left temporal lobe. But, the fact that each cannabis strain has its own effects can make it feel like a wild goose chase when looking for one that triggers a giggle fit.
If you have a few years of experience with cannabis, you know that sativa dominant strains have a more uplifting effect while indica strains have you feeling relaxed and “in-da-couch”. Both strains, even when mixed together in a hybrid strain, can increase your laughter response. The secret here comes down to the specific profile of terpenes that make you laugh.
We owe a big thank you to Laughing Buddha for inspiring this list. This lively sativa is famous for leaving its users in fits of giggles. Its primary terpene, myrcene, gives it a zesty, peppery taste complemented by a sweet, fruity aroma. With a high THC content of about 22-23%, it hits fast and strong.
Another iconic strain, OGK, is a potent hybrid that can induce uncontrollable laughter. First grown in the early 90s, this strain has roots in Northern California, Florida, and even Amsterdam. It practically defined the skunky aroma, often described as a mix of fuel and skunk with a piney taste. OG Kush is a founding strain that has been used to create many other famous strains like Girl Scout Cookies and Ghost OG.
Maybe not the most comedic-esque strain names. Durban Poison surprisingly pleasant with mood-lifting effects. A strong sativa dominant hybrid that creates an invigorating head high. Super rich in myrcene terpenes and has a powerful mood-boosting kick.
Known for its cheerful mental buzz, making it an ideal choice for daytime use due to its stimulating effects. In addition to feeling more energetic, you may also experience a sudden inclination to be sociable, making Super Lemon Haze an excellent option for enjoying a fun and laughter-filled time with friends.
Diesel is a well-known strain that has been the foundation for creating other Diesel variations such as Sour Diesel and Blue Diesel. This sativa-dominant strain (70/30) delivers a stimulating and energizing high, making it ideal for socializing and enjoying a good laugh with friends. Diesel is also a top pick for sparking creativity, providing a great option if you need a boost in focus, energy, and imaginative thinking.
Another diesel family member, Blue Diesel is a fruity hybrid of Blueberry and NYC Diesel. This strain delivers a long-lasting body high with a balanced head high. Without causing tiredness, Blue Diesel gently relaxes users into a state of blissful laughter.
A blend of OGK and Sour Diesel, this strain is sure to bring on the giggles. Part of the diesel family, Sweet Diesel has a subtle fuel scent paired with an earthy herbal taste.
Known for its ability to induce laughter and improve focus, Sweet Diesel is a true sativa that provides a head-high experience. A great choice for socializing, Sweet Diesel sets the stage for a night filled with laughter.
A sour and citrusy sativa, Ghost Train Haze is ideal for bringing on the giggles. These dense buds are created by crossing Ghost OG and Neville’s Wreck.
Typically energizing, Ghost Train Haze can live up to its name with high doses leading to haziness and reduced concentration. Nonetheless, it enhances creativity and laughter for an enjoyable smoking experience.
Liberty Haze possesses a potent terpene profile that promotes a carefree and cheerful attitude. It is invigorating, uplifting, and perfect for social gatherings or enjoying with close companions. As a Haze variety, this cannabis strain induces feelings of euphoria and may have a slightly psychedelic effect.
Similar to the other strains listed here (and other Haze varieties), it contains high levels of limonene, beta-caryophyllene, and myrcene, creating a delightful combination for a euphoric and giggly head high.
Although there isn’t a specific strain that is renowned for causing the most laughter, it appears that sativa strains are more effective than indicas in eliciting laughter. This could be attributed to the fact that sativas are known for creating an uplifting mental high, focusing more on mental effects rather than physical ones.
As THC is broken down in the body, it releases serotonin and dopamine, which are neurotransmitters that enhance mood. When the cerebral effects of sativa strains are combined with the mood-boosting impact of these neurotransmitters, it can result in a potent combination that can have you laughing uncontrollably.
