Cannabis products have evolved far beyond just flower and edibles. One of the most potent and therapeutic options gaining popularity in the medical marijuana community is RSO, or Rick Simpson Oil. If you’re looking for a full-spectrum cannabis extract with strong medicinal benefits, RSO might be exactly what you need.
In this blog, we’ll cover everything you need to know about RSO: what it is, how it’s made, how it works, and why many patients are turning to it for powerful relief.
What Is RSO?
RSO stands for Rick Simpson Oil, named after the Canadian engineer and cannabis advocate who developed it. Unlike other cannabis concentrates, RSO is a full-extract cannabis oil made using an alcohol-based extraction method. It’s typically thick, dark, and sticky, and it contains a high concentration of THC, along with a wide range of other cannabinoids and terpenes.
What makes RSO unique is that it’s intended for medical use, especially for those seeking relief from serious conditions like cancer, chronic pain, epilepsy, and autoimmune disorders.
The Story Behind RSO
Rick Simpson created the oil in the early 2000s after using cannabis oil to treat his own skin cancer. He applied the oil topically to cancerous lesions, claiming dramatic healing results within days. Inspired by his experience, Simpson began sharing his oil recipe with the public—sparking widespread interest and leading to the rise of RSO as a therapeutic cannabis extract.
While Rick Simpson’s claims remain largely anecdotal and unproven by large-scale clinical studies, many patients and caregivers have continued to report positive results using RSO in various forms.
How RSO Is Made
RSO is made by soaking cannabis plant material in a solvent, typically food-grade ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, which strips cannabinoids and other beneficial compounds from the plant. The solvent is then evaporated, leaving behind a concentrated, full-spectrum oil that’s rich in THC, CBD, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds.
Because RSO retains more plant compounds than highly refined distillates, it’s often viewed as a whole-plant medicine, delivering what’s known as the entourage effect—where all components of the cannabis plant work together synergistically for stronger therapeutic impact.
Note: High-quality RSO should always be lab-tested to ensure it’s free from residual solvents and contaminants.
What Is RSO Used For?
RSO is primarily used for medical purposes and is known for its potency and long-lasting effects. Common conditions patients use RSO for include:
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Cancer-related symptoms
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Chronic pain
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Inflammation
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Seizures and epilepsy
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Multiple sclerosis (MS)
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Arthritis
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Insomnia
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Anxiety and depression
Many people take RSO orally, often starting with a grain-of-rice-sized dose, due to its high potency. It can also be applied topically for skin conditions or infused into capsules and edibles.
RSO vs. Distillate vs. FECO
RSO is often confused with other types of cannabis oils, so here’s a quick breakdown:
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RSO is a full-spectrum oil made using alcohol extraction. It contains a wide variety of cannabinoids and plant compounds.
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Distillate is a highly refined product that usually contains one primary cannabinoid, like THC or CBD, and very few terpenes or plant compounds.
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FECO (Full Extract Cannabis Oil) is nearly identical to RSO and sometimes used interchangeably, though some producers differentiate them based on the specific extraction method or strain used.
How to Dose RSO
Because RSO is extremely potent—often containing 60–90% THC—dosing must be done carefully. A typical starting dose is about the size of half a grain of rice, taken orally or placed under the tongue. From there, patients can slowly increase their dose over time depending on their tolerance and therapeutic goals.
It’s highly recommended to consult with a medical cannabis provider or dispensary team before starting RSO, especially if you’re using it alongside other medications or for a serious medical condition.
Is RSO Right for You?
If you’re seeking powerful, long-lasting relief from chronic illness or pain, RSO could be a valuable tool in your medical cannabis journey. It’s not typically used for casual recreational use due to its strength, but for patients looking for something beyond traditional edibles or flower, RSO provides full-body effects and deep therapeutic value.
Final Thoughts
Rick Simpson Oil is one of the most effective and respected cannabis concentrates in the medical marijuana world. With its full-spectrum formulation and high potency, it offers a potent option for patients who need serious relief. Always source your RSO from a licensed dispensary to ensure product safety and consistency, and start low and slow when dosing.
If you’re interested in trying RSO, stop by Long Beach Dispensary and talk with our knowledgeable team. We’ll walk you through the options and help you find the product that best meets your health needs.