Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) has become one of the most talked-about cannabis concentrates in recent years. Whether you’re new to cannabis or exploring stronger extracts, you’ve likely come across terms like RSO, RSO oil, or Rick Simpson Oil. But what exactly is it, how is it different from other cannabis products, and how do people use it?
Unlike traditional cannabis oils that are often designed for vaping or mild effects, RSO is a highly concentrated, full-spectrum cannabis extract intended primarily for oral or topical use. It contains a broad range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other naturally occurring plant compounds that remain after extraction.
If you’re wondering what is RSO, this guide covers everything you need to know. You’ll learn how Rick Simpson Oil is made, how it’s commonly used, potential benefits, safety considerations, legal status in the United States, and how to choose a quality product.
What Is RSO?
RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) is a full-spectrum cannabis extract made by soaking cannabis flower in a solvent to remove cannabinoids and other plant compounds before carefully evaporating the solvent. The result is a thick, sticky, dark-colored oil that contains high concentrations of THC along with smaller amounts of CBD and numerous minor cannabinoids, depending on the strain used.
The oil is named after Rick Simpson, a Canadian engineer who popularized the extract in the early 2000s after sharing his personal story of using homemade cannabis oil. While his story attracted worldwide attention, it’s important to understand that anecdotal experiences are not scientific evidence, and RSO has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as a treatment for cancer or other diseases.
Today, many licensed cannabis manufacturers produce professionally extracted RSO using standardized methods and laboratory testing.
Key Characteristics of RSO
- Thick, dark brown or nearly black appearance
- Very high THC concentration
- Full-spectrum cannabinoid profile
- Sticky, syringe-style packaging
- Intended for oral or topical use
- Typically not designed for vaping
Who Is Rick Simpson?
Rick Simpson is a Canadian medical cannabis advocate who developed and promoted a homemade cannabis extract after claiming it helped improve his own health condition.
His story gained international attention through documentaries, interviews, and online communities. Since then, the oil has become known globally as Rick Simpson Oil or RSO.
Although Rick Simpson’s personal experience inspired many people to learn about cannabis extracts, major medical organizations emphasize that there is currently no reliable clinical evidence showing that RSO cures cancer. Research into cannabinoids continues, but more high-quality human studies are needed before therapeutic claims can be made.
How Is Rick Simpson Oil Made?
RSO begins with cannabis flower that contains cannabinoids like THC and CBD.
The basic production process includes:
1. Cannabis Selection
Manufacturers begin with cannabis flowers. The cannabinoid profile depends on the strain used.
Some producers use:
- THC-dominant strains
- CBD-rich strains
- Balanced hybrid varieties
2. Solvent Extraction
The cannabis is soaked in a food-grade or pharmaceutical-grade solvent that dissolves cannabinoids, terpenes, and other desirable compounds.
3. Filtration
Plant material is removed while the cannabinoid-rich solution remains.
4. Solvent Removal
The solvent is carefully evaporated under controlled conditions, leaving behind concentrated cannabis oil.
5. Laboratory Testing
Licensed manufacturers test the finished product for:
- Cannabinoid potency
- Residual solvents
- Heavy metals
- Pesticides
- Microbial contamination
Professional manufacturing helps ensure consistency and safety compared to homemade products.
Why Is RSO Different From Other Cannabis Oils?
Many cannabis products contain THC, but they are not all made the same way.
| Product | THC Level | Full Spectrum | Common Use |
| RSO | Very high | Yes | Oral or topical |
| Distillate | Very high | Usually no | Vaping, edibles |
| CBD Oil | Low or none | Varies | Wellness products |
| Live Resin | High | Yes | Dabbing and vaping |
| Hash Oil | High | Varies | Dabbing or vaping |
The biggest difference is that RSO retains more naturally occurring compounds from the cannabis plant than highly refined products like THC distillate.
This may contribute to what’s commonly called the entourage effect, a theory suggesting cannabinoids and terpenes may work together differently than isolated compounds. While this concept is widely discussed, additional research is still needed to fully understand its clinical significance.
What’s Inside RSO?
Depending on the cannabis strain and extraction process, Rick Simpson Oil may contain:
- THC
- CBD
- CBG
- CBC
- CBN
- Terpenes
- Flavonoids
- Plant lipids
- Natural waxes
Because it is minimally refined, RSO usually appears much darker than distilled cannabis oils.
How Is RSO Used?
One of the most common questions people ask is how RSO should actually be used.
Oral Consumption
The most popular method is swallowing a small amount.
Many people place RSO:
- Under the tongue
- Inside capsules
- On crackers
- On peanut butter
- Mixed into food after cooking
Since RSO behaves similarly to an edible, effects usually begin within 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on factors such as metabolism, recent food intake, and dosage.
Effects may last anywhere from 6 to 8 hours or longer, especially with higher doses.
Topical Use
Some users apply RSO directly to the skin.
People use topical cannabis products for a variety of personal reasons. However, scientific evidence supporting topical RSO for specific medical conditions remains limited.
Capsules
Many consumers prefer filling empty capsules with measured amounts of RSO.
This method:
- Reduces taste
- Simplifies dosing
- Offers discreet consumption
Can You Smoke or Vape RSO?
Generally, no.
Most commercially available RSO is not intended for smoking or vaping.
Its thick consistency and production method make it unsuitable for vape cartridges or dab rigs.
If you want a product specifically designed for inhalation, consider:
-
- Live resin
- Live rosin
Always follow the manufacturer’s intended use instructions.
How Strong Is RSO?
RSO is one of the strongest cannabis concentrates available.
Some products contain:
- 60–90% THC
- Small amounts of CBD
- Minor cannabinoids
Because potency varies by manufacturer, always review the product’s Certificate of Analysis (COA) or lab results before use.
Even experienced cannabis consumers often begin with very small servings due to RSO’s potency.
How Much RSO Should You Take?
There is no universal dosage that works for everyone.
Your ideal serving depends on:
- Cannabis experience
- THC tolerance
- Body weight
- Metabolism
- Desired effects
Beginner Guideline
A common recommendation is to start with an amount approximately the size of half a grain of rice to one grain of rice, then wait several hours before considering another serving. Individual tolerance varies significantly.
General best practices include:
- Start low
- Increase gradually if needed
- Avoid combining with alcohol
- Never drive after consuming THC
How Long Does RSO Last?
Like traditional THC edibles:
| Stage | Approximate Time |
| Onset | 30 minutes–2 hours |
| Peak Effects | 2–4 hours |
| Total Duration | 6–8+ hours |
| Residual Effects | Up to 12 hours for some users |
These timelines vary based on metabolism, dosage, and whether RSO is consumed with food.
What Does RSO Feel Like?
Because RSO often contains large amounts of THC, users commonly report effects such as:
- Deep relaxation
- Strong body sensations
- Euphoria
- Altered perception
- Increased appetite
- Sleepiness
Higher doses may also increase the likelihood of temporary side effects such as anxiety, dizziness, impaired coordination, dry mouth, dry eyes, or rapid heart rate, particularly in individuals with lower THC tolerance.
Potential Benefits of RSO
Many people choose RSO because it preserves a broad range of cannabis compounds.
Users commonly report using it for:
- Long-lasting effects
- High THC potency
- Full-spectrum cannabis experience
- Convenient oral dosing
What Does the Research Say?
Cannabis research continues to expand, but evidence regarding RSO specifically remains limited.
Some laboratory and clinical research suggests cannabinoids may have roles in areas such as chronic pain, chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting, muscle spasticity associated with multiple sclerosis, and certain rare seizure disorders. However, these findings do not establish that RSO itself is an effective treatment for these conditions.
More rigorous clinical trials are needed to determine the safety and effectiveness of RSO for specific medical uses.
Does RSO Cure Cancer?
This is one of the most searched questions about Rick Simpson Oil.
The answer is:
There is currently no reliable scientific evidence that RSO cures cancer in humans.
Although cannabinoids have demonstrated interesting effects in laboratory and animal studies, these findings do not prove that RSO can treat or cure cancer in people.
Organizations including the American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, and FDA state that cannabis products should not replace evidence-based cancer treatments prescribed by qualified healthcare professionals.
If you have cancer or another serious medical condition, discuss any cannabis use with your healthcare team before starting RSO.
Is RSO Legal in the United States?
Federal and state cannabis laws differ.
In general:
- Hemp-derived products containing no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC by dry weight may be federally legal under the 2018 Farm Bill, although other cannabinoids and state laws can affect legality.
- THC-rich RSO is generally available only in states with medical or adult-use cannabis programs.
- State laws vary significantly.
Before purchasing RSO, check the laws where you live.
How to Choose High-Quality RSO
Not all cannabis oils offer the same quality.
When shopping for RSO, look for:
Third-Party Lab Testing
Choose products with current Certificates of Analysis.
Licensed Manufacturers
Buy from reputable dispensaries and licensed producers.
Clear Potency Information
Know exactly how much THC and CBD you’re getting.
Fresh Products
Review manufacturing and expiration dates.
Proper Packaging
Quality RSO is commonly packaged in syringes that make dispensing small amounts easier.
How Should You Store RSO?
Proper storage helps preserve cannabinoids.
Store RSO:
- In a cool, dark place
- Away from direct sunlight
- Upright when possible
- With the cap securely closed
- Out of reach of children and pets
Refrigeration may extend shelf life but can make the oil thicker. Allow it to warm slightly before dispensing if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is RSO stronger than regular THC oil?
Often, yes. RSO is typically a highly concentrated, full-spectrum cannabis extract with high THC levels.
Can beginners use RSO?
Yes, but only in very small amounts due to its potency.
Can you vape RSO?
Most RSO products are not designed for vaping or dabbing.
Does RSO get you high?
THC-rich RSO can produce intoxicating effects.
How long does RSO stay in your system?
Detection times vary based on frequency of use, body composition, metabolism, dosage, and the type of drug test. THC metabolites may remain detectable for days to weeks after use.
Final Thoughts on RSO
If you’ve been wondering what is RSO, the answer is relatively straightforward: Rick Simpson Oil is a highly concentrated, full-spectrum cannabis extract known for its potency and broad cannabinoid profile. Unlike many refined cannabis products, RSO retains a wider range of naturally occurring compounds from the plant and is most commonly consumed orally or used topically.
Because of its high THC content, RSO is best approached carefully. Starting with a very small amount, choosing products that have been third-party lab tested, and purchasing from a trusted weed dispensary can help you make more informed decisions.
While research into cannabis continues to grow, it’s important to separate anecdotal claims from established scientific evidence. RSO has generated significant public interest, but it should not be viewed as a proven cure for cancer or other serious illnesses.
If you’re ready to explore premium cannabis products, Get Bud Online offers a carefully selected range of high-quality cannabis options to suit different experience levels and preferences. Browse our collection to find trusted products backed by quality and consistency.
References
Heid, M. Medically Reviewed by J. Robinson, MD. (2026, May 20). Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) for Cancer: Does It Work?. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/cancer/rick-simpson-oil-for-cancer-overview