The giggles can be one of the most fun and desirable side effects of ingesting cannabis. Some people might associate bouts of cannabis-induced hysterical laughter with the stoner stigma, but laughing actually enhances the medical benefits of cannabis in a myriad of ways. Researchers Dr. Lee Berk and Dr. Stanley Tan proved this when they found significant health benefits resulting from laughter in their study at Loma Linda University.
It’s fairly obvious to observe that laughter improves our mood and encourages positive thoughts, which can reduce anxiety and depression. Less obvious are the physical effects of laughter, which include a healthier heart, more effective immune system, and lower inflammatory response. When you laugh, you exercise your heart and lungs, reduce your body’s cortisol (stress hormone) levels, and release dopamines and other endorphins which lower anxiety and make you feel good.
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The team at HelloMD believe laughter is the best medicine, especially during trying times, and they’re hosting an entire experience about it. On October 5th at San Francisco’s The Midway, Netflix comedy star Mike Winfield headlines alongside stand-up comedians Steph Garcia and Carlos Rodriguez at Laughter Haven. Some of California’s top cannabis brands will be present for sampling in Dope Magazine’s combustion lounge. Our community comes together for a night of cannabis and comedy and discover that being healthy can be fun - and funny too!
Top Five Strains for Laughter
Generally everyone’s first few experiences with cannabis includes non-stop laughter. For some people the giggles wear off after their first few cannabis experiences, but certain strains provide just the right amount of body relaxation and cerebral stimulation to keep you laughing all night long. Here are some of our favorite strains for inducing laughter:
Chemdawg
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Chemdawg is an indica-dominant hybrid with a high THC content (20%), known for its distinct aroma which resembles gasoline. The experience balances a creative, cerebral head high with a relaxed body high, providing the optimum conditions for fits of the giggles. This uplifting strain is also useful for treating anxiety, depression, insomnia, and lack of appetite.
Sweet Diesel
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Sweet Diesel is a cross of super popular strains Sour Diesel and OG Kush. This pure sativa strain has a mild THC content, making it a good option for cannabis newbies or those with lower tolerances. Great for the daytime, the experience is mostly heady, felt behind the face and eyes, and making patients feel relaxed, focused, and uplifted. This strain is ideal for treating chronic stress, anxiety, depression, and pain.
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Mango Kush
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Mango Kush is an indica-dominant strain containing the magical combination of mangoes and cannabis. With a tropical mango flavor, the effects of Mango Kush are mostly felt in the body, inspiring deep relaxation and strong euphoria which leads to lots of laughter. This strain can be used to treat nausea, anxiety, stress, lack of appetite, and depression.
Fruity Pebbles
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Fruity Pebbles is a sweet, fruit-flavored indica dominant hybrid strain, with a moderate THC level. The effects include a strong body-high which may keep you on the couch, where you’ll be smiling, euphoric, and happy :) This strain is ideal for treating chronic pain, ADD, and other mood disorders.
Church OG
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Church OG is an indica strain that provides intense body relaxation with long-lasting cerebral effects. With up to 19% THC, the effects are long-lasting, providing relief for several hours. Inspiring happy, lazy feelings of euphoria, this strain can be used to treat anxiety, depression, insomnia, migraines, and lack of appetite.
If you are new to cannabis and want to learn more, take a look at our Cannabis 101 post. HelloMD can help you get your medical marijuana recommendation; it's 100% online, private and efficient.