The Ultimate Guide to Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)

What is Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)?

Rick Simpson Oil, often abbreviated as RSO, stands out as one of the most celebrated innovations in the cannabis world. It’s not merely a cannabis-derived oil. Unlike many extracts that remove trichomes from buds through solvents, RSO encompasses the full spectrum of the cannabis plant. This means it holds all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and additional beneficial compounds found in cannabis.

In Florida, patients with a valid medical marijuana card can purchase RSO through licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs), making it one of the most accessible full-spectrum cannabis products in the state.

Who Is Rick Simpson?

Rick Simpson is a former Canadian engineer who inadvertently became a significant figure in the medical cannabis industry. In 1997, a workplace accident involving a bad fall, exposure to toxic fumes and poor ventilation at a hospital led to a series of health issues, including persistent tinnitus and debilitating dizziness. Traditional medications failed to alleviate his symptoms, prompting him to explore medical marijuana as an alternative treatment. He began growing his own plants, despite its illegal status and opposition from his doctor at the time.

In 2003, Simpson faced a more severe health concern: a diagnosis of basal cell carcinoma, a type of skin cancer. Even with Canada’s legalization of medical cannabis in 2001, securing physician support for its use was challenging.

A study from 1975 in The Journal of the National Cancer Institute propelled him to develop Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), influenced by evidence suggesting cannabis could inhibit tumor growth.

In a 2019 interview, Simpson shared the experience that cemented his belief in cannabis as medicine:

“In early 2003, I used cannabis extracts to heal three skin cancers I had been suffering with for many years… A week after the doctor removed the lesion close to my eye, I was looking at the area where they operated and it was infected.

At that moment I remembered the report I heard on the radio back in 1975. They were talking about the Medical School of Virginia study that stated that THC kills cancer cells. I knew the oil I produced had concentrated high levels of THC in it, so I decided to apply the oil directly to the lesions. I put some oil on the bandages and applied them to the affected areas. I removed the bandages four days after and the lesions were completely healed, and there was no need for further treatment… I couldn’t believe that the cancer was gone.

I started telling friends and neighbors that cannabis oil healed my cancer. Most of the people thought that I was crazy and they were saying: ‘Yeah, right, Rick, cannabis cures cancer.’”

Simpson staunchly believes that RSO cured his skin cancer; and, although no independent scientific validations directly support this claim, several landmark studies all point to the same powerful conclusion. He dedicated himself to producing and distributing RSO freely to thousands of patients until his efforts were halted by a police raid in 2009, and thousands of his cannabis plants were confiscated.

To continue his advocacy without legal hindrance, Simpson moved to Croatia with his wife, maintaining a website with resources on RSO, including recipes, dosing guides, and books. After suffering a stroke in 2018, Simpson has kept a low profile but remains a fervent advocate for medical cannabis and RSO.

What Is RSO Used For?

The tales of RSO’s benefits span a spectrum. Some suggest it assists in managing conditions like epilepsy, asthma, cancer, insomnia, and chronic pain. There are also reports that highlight its potential benefits in severe conditions. For instance, a 2013 article documented a case where RSO dramatically reduced leukemic blast cell count in a terminally ill 14-year-old.

While anecdotal evidence strongly backs RSO’s effectiveness, scientific research is still catching up, mainly due to the legal constraints around cannabis. A study from 2021 revealed that many primary care teams weren’t fully informed about integrating cannabis, including RSO, into their patient’s treatment plans. This gap suggests the urgency for more robust research on RSO’s applications.

Researchers have also explored RSO’s potential to treat post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). A recent study, published by Medical Cannabis and Cannabinoids, found that participants using cannabis treatments, including RSO, experienced significant improvements in PTSD symptoms over a 70-day period, including reduced anxiety and better sleep quality.

Is RSO Good for Cancer?

While Rick Simpson himself fervently asserts the oil’s potency in combating cancers, the wider medical community has yet to establish a consensus. There have been preliminary studies, especially on animals, indicating that certain cannabinoids may possess anti-cancer properties. For instance, some research suggests that cannabinoids can induce cell death in tumor cells, inhibit tumor growth, and even reduce the spread of certain cancers.

Moreover, while RSO contains a high concentration of THC, the psychoactive compound found in cannabis, it’s still unclear how THC and other cannabinoids in RSO interact and what potential synergistic effects they might have against cancer cells. As a 2023 review published by Cancers notes, although early laboratory studies suggest THC and other cannabinoids can inhibit tumor growth in certain cancer cell lines, confirmation via human clinical trials is still lacking.

Given the gravity of a cancer diagnosis and the complexities surrounding its treatment, it’s imperative that patients and caregivers remain informed and critical. Anyone considering RSO or any alternative treatments should engage in open dialogue with their healthcare provider. It’s crucial to weigh the potential benefits against the risks and understand that while RSO might offer relief for some symptoms or conditions, it should not replace conventional treatments without a thorough discussion with a medical professional.

Read more about marijuana and cancer.

Is RSO Good for Pain Management?

Yes. RSO, known for its high THC content, can potentially alleviate pain, given THC’s interaction with CB1 receptors in the brain and nerve cells.

Questions about treating pain with medical marijuana?

Is RSO Safe to Use?

Despite its potent THC levels, RSO doesn’t pose a threat of overdose or lasting side effects. However, precautions are necessary. Those looking to craft their RSO must remember that its preparation can involve the use of flammable solvents. Therefore, sourcing RSO from reputable, licensed dispensaries is often the safest route.

How to Use RSO

Because RSO contains THC, its availability is restricted to states with legalized adult-use or medicinal cannabis, like Florida. The methods of consuming RSO are diverse. Some apply it topically, while others ingest it. The latter approach necessitates a higher quantity and a phased dosing system to allow the body to acclimate to the potent oil.

Note: RSO should not be smoked or vaped, as the oil’s thick consistency is incompatible with this route of administration. Instead, RSO comes in syringes, capsules, edibles, topical products, and even suppositories.

What’s the Best Way to Take RSO?

RSO offers a concentrated dose of cannabis’s beneficial compounds, making its administration slightly different from other cannabis products. When contemplating the best way to take RSO, several factors come into play, including the desired effects, individual preferences, and specific health conditions being addressed. Let’s delve into the recommended methods for RSO consumption.

Sublingual Administration: One of the most popular ways to take RSO is sublingually, which means placing it under the tongue. The mucous membranes in the mouth allow for quick absorption of cannabinoids directly into the bloodstream. This method can offer effects more rapidly than ingestion and can be felt within 15 to 45 minutes.

It’s a straightforward approach: simply use a syringe or dropper to place a small amount (generally, 1/60 of a gram, or half the size of a grain of rice to start) of RSO under the tongue, hold for 60-90 seconds, and then swallow.

When using an RSO syringe, first warm it in your hand or place it under warm running water, taking care to keep the plunger side dry. Warming the syringe helps make the oil easier to dispense. When dispensing, stop just before you reach the desired dose, as the oil may continue to drip. If that happens, gently pull the plunger back and the excess should recede.

Ingesting with Food: Another common method is mixing RSO with food. When ingested, RSO goes through the digestive system and is metabolized by the liver. This can lead to more prolonged and intense effects compared to other methods. Common choices include mixing RSO with fats like butter or coconut oil, which can enhance cannabinoid absorption. It can also be incorporated into various recipes, from baked goods to smoothies. However, it’s worth noting that effects from ingestion can take anywhere from 45 minutes to 2 hours to manifest, so patience and caution with dosing are vital.

Capsule Form: For those who prefer a standardized dose or wish to avoid the distinct taste of RSO, encapsulating the oil is a viable option. Gelatin or vegetarian capsules can be filled with the desired amount of RSO, providing a convenient and portable means of ingestion. To make capsules, simply squeeze a small dose of RSO into an empty capsule and add a few drops of a carrier oil, such as olive or coconut oil, to aid absorption.

Topical Application: RSO isn’t just for internal use. It can also be applied topically to address localized pain, skin conditions, or inflammation. By blending RSO with a carrier oil or cream, users can apply it directly to the skin. While this method won’t induce a psychoactive “high”, it can offer targeted relief within 15 to 30 minutes.

Suppositories: Did someone say “boof it?” A lesser-known route of administration, RSO suppositories are sometimes used in oncology and palliative care. According to a 2021 study, this method may be most comfortable for patients who cannot swallow, those with gastrointestinal illness, or individuals receiving palliative support. Suppositories have also been explored for healing skin damaged by rectal radiation.

Additionally, a 2025 preclinical study reported that 3D-printed CBD suppositories showed promise for treating epilepsy, as the rectal route avoided the liver’s first-pass effect and allowed steadier systemic delivery of CBD in animal models.

Both rectal and vaginal suppositories are available, and patients describe the process as similar to using other medicated suppositories. It generally involves making sure the suppository is firm enough to handle, gently inserting it, and allowing time for the product to be absorbed. For comfort, some patients also use a small amount of lubricant.

Onset time varies but generally, relief is reported within 15 to 30 minutes or 1 to 2 hours, depending on the type.

Start Low and Go Slow: Regardless of the method chosen, the fundamental principle when starting with RSO is to begin with a low dose and gradually increase. This ensures the individual can gauge their reaction and find a dosage that provides the desired therapeutic effects without being overwhelming. Rick Simpson himself recommends starting with a dose about half the size of a grain of rice, gradually increasing over several weeks.

Consideration of Tolerance: It’s important to remember that everyone’s endocannabinoid system is unique. Factors such as body weight, metabolism, tolerance, and the condition being treated all play a role in how RSO is experienced. Regular cannabis users might require a higher starting dose than those new to cannabis.

Potential Side Effects & Precautions

While many patients report therapeutic benefits from RSO, it’s important to keep potential side effects in mind ( given RSO’s high THC concentration), such as: dizziness, nausea, increased heart rate, short-term memory impairment, and – more rarely – anxiety or paranoia, particularly at higher doses.

Legal Status & Accessibility

RSO rules vary by jurisdiction. In legal medical marijuana states, like Florida, patients can purchase RSO at licensed dispensaries with a valid medical marijuana card. However, in states where marijuana remains illegal, possession of RSO may lead to trouble. For a full list of every state’s marijuana laws, see CannaMD’s article: Where Can I Use Marijuana?

Where Can I Buy RSO in Florida?

In Florida, RSO is available only through licensed Medical Marijuana Treatment Centers (MMTCs). To purchase RSO in Florida, patients must hold a valid medical marijuana card. Many MMTCs across the state carry RSO products in forms such as syringes, capsules, or tinctures, though availability can vary by location. Because product menus change often, it is best to check online or call ahead before visiting. Purchasing through a licensed MMTC ensures that the product is lab-tested, regulated, and compliant with Florida’s safety standards.

RSO vs. Other Cannabis Oils

RSO is different from other cannabis oils in that it has a very high THC profile, while also affording full-spectrum benefits. Unlike CBD oils, which are often derived from hemp and/or contain minimal THC, RSO is made from the whole marijuana plant. This creates a much wider range of cannabinoids and terpenes, contributing to what is known as the entourage effect (when cannabis compounds work synergistically to enhance therapeutic effects). However, this high degree of potency might not be suitable for new patients or those sensitive to marijuana’s effects.

How Do You Dose RSO?

It’s imperative to start with a low dose (generally, 1/60 of a gram, or half the size of a grain of rice) and gradually increase until the desired effects are reached, especially for those new to RSO or cannabis in general. Too much RSO can lead to an uncomfortably potent high, marked by confusion, dizziness, or even greening out — a term used to describe feeling sick from consuming too much cannabis.

What Kind of High Does RSO Give?

The “high” experienced from RSO is multifaceted and can vary based on the individual, the strain of cannabis used, and the dosage. Users often describe the RSO high as intense and long-lasting. Since it’s taken orally and metabolized by the liver, the effects can be more prolonged and profound compared to inhaled cannabis. This can translate into a deep, introspective, and meditative experience for some, while others might find it overwhelming.

How Potent Is RSO?

RSO is renowned for its potency. The primary psychoactive component in cannabis, THC (tetrahydrocannabinol), is present in high concentrations in RSO, especially if made from high-THC strains. Given this potency, even small amounts can induce significant psychoactive effects.

How Do You Store RSO?

Storing RSO correctly is crucial to its efficacy. Keep it in a cool, dark place, ideally in an airtight container. This ensures the oil maintains its potency and doesn’t degrade over time.

Read more about storing marijuana.

How Expensive is RSO?

RSO’s cost typically ranges between $35-70 per gram, which might seem steep considering patients might need up to 60 grams for the recommended regimen.

Is RSO the Same as CBD?

Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) and cannabidiol (CBD) often arise in discussions related to therapeutic benefits. But are RSO and CBD the same thing? The short answer is no. However, understanding their differences is vital for anyone looking to harness the healing properties of the cannabis plant.

While RSO and CBD both offer a spectrum of potential health benefits, they are distinct products derived from the cannabis plant. Before opting for either, it’s essential to understand their differences, and individual needs. Consulting with healthcare professionals can further guide individuals in making informed choices.

Read more about CBD.

What Other Types of High-THC Extracts Are Available?

RSO isn’t the only high-THC concentrate available to Florida patients. Licensed dispensaries also carry products like distillates, which are highly refined oils containing almost pure THC; wax and shatter, which are solid concentrates produced through solvent extraction and known for their potency; rosin, a solventless extract made using heat and pressure that preserves more terpenes; and live resin, created from fresh-frozen cannabis plants to maximize flavor and full-spectrum effects. Each of these extracts offers a different balance of potency, flavor, and entourage effect, and patients often choose between them based on whether they want something versatile for oral use, vaping, or dabbing.

The Potential & Promise of RSO

Rick Simpson Oil stands as a beacon in the vast realm of cannabis-based products, shining light on the therapeutic potentials and the inspiring tales of recovery attributed to its usage. Simpson’s journey, from a personal quest for relief to a global advocacy for the medicinal properties of cannabis, underscores the profound impact individuals can have on the broader discourse of health and wellness.

However, it’s paramount to approach RSO with a blend of optimism and caution. While countless testimonials vouch for its life-altering benefits, scientific validation remains a significant frontier yet to be fully explored. As with any medicinal product, particularly those derived from plants with as complex a profile as cannabis, individual responses can vary.

Try RSO Today!

In a rapidly evolving landscape, where alternative and natural remedies are being revisited, RSO stands out as a potent emblem of what might be possible. As research catches up, regulations evolve, and societal acceptance broadens, we might soon unlock the full spectrum of benefits that RSO and similar products have to offer. Until then, always seek the advice of a medical marijuana physician before embarking on any new treatment journey and remain informed about the latest findings and research in the area.

Ready to find a medical marijuana doctor near you? Call CannaMD at (855) 420-9170 or fill out a quick online application to get your medical marijuana card!