What is RSO and Who is Rick Simpson?

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for informational and educational purposes only and represents the author's research. It is not intended as medical advice or a substitute for professional healthcare guidance. RSO and cannabis products affect everyone differently. If you are considering RSO for medical purposes, please consult with a qualified healthcare provider before use. Do not stop or modify any prescribed medications without consulting your doctor.

You may have heard of a cannabis product called RSO and wondered what it might be, how it differs from other products, or what it stands for. While it’s not the most popular method of consumption, it has a variety of medicinal benefits.

RSO is a type of cannabis concentrate that can be used as a topical as well as an edible by putting it in food, drinks, or just consuming it as it comes out of the syringe or tincture. We’re going to dive into what RSO is and the benefits it may be able to provide you!

What is RSO, and who is Rick Simpson? 

RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) is a type of cannabis oil that has a thick consistency and dark color and was originally made as a cannabis topical in 2003 by a man named Rick Simpson. Rick Simpson created this oil after finding small bumps on his arms that turned out to be a form of skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma).

He had used cannabis to help treat a previous condition he had, and wanted to see if he could fight his cancer using natural remedies. He started extracting his own cannabis oil and applied it topically to his skin cancer and covered them with bandages.

He went through his process repeatedly until he started noticing the areas where he had skin cancer were shrinking in size.  RSO was scientifically shown to help induce tumor cell death, and that cannabis and different cannabinoids have antitumor effects. 

How is it made?

RSO is an oil extracted from the cannabis plant and has similar extraction methods to many concentrates. A solvent is used (RSO usually uses grain alcohol), and the flower material is added to the alcohol. The alcohol and flower mixture is stirred, and after a set period, it is drained.

The remaining material will then be heated to evaporate the alcohol from the plant material. What you will have leftover will be a thick and darker-colored cannabis oil that will usually have a higher potency. You can find syringes of RSO with just THC or with a combination of CBD as well.

How to Dose:

RSO requires the use of no heat to activate the THC because it is already activated. RSO offers a variety of benefits, and although it was originally formulated as a topical, it can be consumed orally. RSO usually contains higher amounts of THC (up to 1000 mg or higher). It is important to start very low and slow to find the right amount for you.

Oral Consumption

Many people start with a small amount, about the size of a grain of rice or smaller, and will consume it orally. Because RSO is known to have a strong bitter flavor, a popular method of consumption is to place a small, rice-sized amount on a cracker or other foods to help with the taste.

Topical Application

If you are using RSO topically, apply a small amount to the area, cover it with a bandage or wrap, and leave it on for 1-3 days. After that time, change the bandage and reapply the RSO to the same spot.

Tips for Using RSO Syringes

Syringes of RSO can be hard to extract sometimes because of its thicker consistency, if you find you’re having trouble try placing the syringe in warm water for 5-10 minutes. It should help the cannabis oil become softer and easier to push through the syringe.

Find RSO at Quality Roots

Ready to try RSO? Quality Roots carries RSO products and other premium concentrates at locations across Michigan and New Jersey. Our knowledgeable staff can help you find the right product and dosage for your needs. Find us in Monroe, Detroit, Battle Creek, Owosso, Hamtramck, Berkley, Kalamazoo, Madison Heights, Waterford, Evesham, and Marlton. Browse our selection and place your order online for quick pickup.

Author: Rachel, a Patient Care Specialist at the Quality Roots Battle Creek location, is also a dedicated expert contributor. In her free time, she enjoys spending time outdoors and researching all things cannabis.