Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) Overview

Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a potent product that sparks curiosity in the medical marijuana community; but what is RSO? RSO is a high-THC concentrated cannabis extract, named after its creator Rick Simpson.

RSO is famed for its potency. However, this cannabis oil is much more than just its THC content. As a full-spectrum extract, it retains a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes naturally present in the cannabis plant that could have various medical applications.

What Is Rick Simpson Oil?

Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a high-potency cannabis extract named after its Canadian creator and medical cannabis activist, Rick Simpson. Simpson became renowned in the MMJ community after his claims that the high-THC cannabis extract he developed had cured his basal cell carcinoma.

RSO can contain up to 75% THC and is typically ingested orally or as part of a cannabis edible. It can also be applied topically. RSO is a full-spectrum extract, meaning it contains a variety of cannabinoids (like THC and CBD) and terpenes found naturally in the cannabis plant.

These additional compounds are believed to contribute to the “entourage effect,” in which the synergy between cannabinoids and terpenes could produce a wider range of therapeutic effects. This makes RSO an interesting option for holders of an up-to-date medical marijuana card searching for a full-spectrum alternative to THC isolates.

How Is RSO Made?

RSO is made via a solvent extraction process to separate the desired cannabis compounds from the plant material. 

First, high-quality cannabis flower is soaked in a solvent like ethyl alcohol, isopropyl alcohol, naphtha, or butane (P.S. use alcohol rather than naphtha or butane if you try this at home, and always ensure the area is well-ventilated). 

The terpenes, cannabinoids, and other chemical compounds found in the cannabis flower will seep into the solvent, which is then filtered to remove any plant material.

The solvent then needs to be carefully evaporated using low heat and a vacuum purge system, if available. This process removes the solvent, leaving behind the concentrated cannabis oil: Rick Simpson Oil.

How Is RSO Different from Other Cannabis Extracts?

The full-spectrum nature of RSO is what makes it different from other cannabis extracts. RSO and cannabis oil can be easily confused, but aren’t exactly the same. RSO is a highly potent product with high levels of THC along with the rest of the chemical compounds found in the cannabis plant. Some other cannabis oils like CBD oil don't contain this full spectrum of compounds.

There are many reasons for choosing a high-THC product if you are very unwell. While the THC percentage doesn't always matter in medical marijuana as much as we think, there's evidence to suggest that THC is effective at treating some conditions like spasms and nausea. Indeed, the best strains for nausea are often high-THC strains.

Possible Benefits of RSO

RSO is a mainstay of alternative therapies in MMJ-friendly states like Arizona due to its high THC content alongside full-spectrum benefits. RSO oil has several possible applications in the treatment of AZ qualifying conditions:

RSO for Cancer Treatment

While there's no evidence to suggest RSO can prevent cancer, early research suggests RSO can positively affect some aspects of cancer treatments. Indeed, Rick Simpson developed the oil as a cannabis extract treatment for his own skin cancer (though current scientific research doesn't back this up).

Studies suggest that RSO—thanks to its high THC content—could help treat cancer in the following ways:

• THC along with other cannabis compounds could kill off existing cancer cells or slow their growth.

• Studies have also found THC to be effective in stopping the growth of tumors.

RSO for Pain Relief

A significant amount of anecdotal evidence suggests RSO can treat pain. Scientific evidence goes some way to backing this up. Research also shows that RSO could alter the way we perceive pain.

Research suggesting RSO might alleviate pain includes the following:

• THC could alter pain perception in the brain. This means that even though the source of the pain remains, it could be experienced as less intense and more bearable.

• The THC and CBD in full-spectrum products like RSO bind to brain receptors and nerve cells that affect how we feel pain. This slows pain impulses and alleviates pain and discomfort.

• THC, CBD, and CBG have anti-inflammatory effects that in turn help to reduce pain.

How to Use RSO

There are several ways to use RSO. The way you choose to consume RSO is partly a question of preference. However, the difference in onset time may influence some patients' choices:

• Ingestion: Patients commonly ingest RSO sublingually or as part of an edible. Sublingual ingestion allows for rapid absorption into the bloodstream while consuming it in an edible will take significantly longer to appreciate the effects.

• Topical: Some patients apply a drop or two of RSO directly onto the skin and cover it with a bandage or Band-Aid.

• Smoking or vaping: This is the fastest way to feel the effects of RSO. Remember to use a smaller dose if you smoke or vape RSO.

• Gummies: The main advantage of gummies is controlled dosage. It can be complicated to dose RSO precisely when using a syringe as a slip of the hand can cause overconsumption. Gummies allow you to consume a controlled amount and may even taste better!

FAQs

What Does RSO Taste Like?

RSO typically has an earthy and bitter taste that comes as a result of the full-plant extraction process. RSO is famed for its potency, but not for its delicious taste. This is because the production process prioritizes effects over flavor. The taste may change subtly depending on the strain used to produce the oil.

How Long Does RSO Take to Kick In?

How long RSO takes to kick in will change depending on how you consume it. Vaping or smoking RSO will offer immediate effects. The onset times for sublingual consumption or ingesting it as an edible will be longer. 

Expect to feel the effects of sublingual administration between 15 minutes and an hour after consumption. It may take between an hour and two hours to appreciate the full effects of RSO in an edible.

Where Can You Get RSO?

Many recreational cannabis dispensaries sell RSO. You can also purchase RSO in many specialist MMJ dispensaries using your MMJ card. Your state’s laws will affect the availability of RSO and where it can be purchased.

RSO: A Potent Alternative Therapy

Patients looking for a powerful THC-based remedy for their qualifying condition will find a potent option in RSO. RSO's reputation in the medical community as a high-THC alternative therapy is well-earned as RSO could help relieve symptoms like pain or reduce inflammation.

Remember to use RSO or any other potent cannabis extract with caution. Use small amounts and consult your medical team about combining cannabis-based products with any other medications you are currently taking.