What Is RSO Oil? A Guide to Rick Simpson Oil
RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) is a full-spectrum cannabis extract made using solvent extraction, typically with ethanol (food-grade alcohol). The result is a dark brown to black oil containing the full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, plant waxes, and chlorophyll from the starting plant material.
What Is RSO?
RSO (Rick Simpson Oil) is a full-spectrum cannabis extract made using solvent extraction, typically with ethanol (food-grade alcohol). The result is a dark brown to black oil containing the full spectrum of cannabinoids, terpenes, plant waxes, and chlorophyll from the starting plant material.
Unlike more refined extracts like distillate (which isolates specific cannabinoids) or live rosin (which uses heat and pressure), RSO intentionally preserves everything from the plant - the philosophy being that the full spectrum of compounds works together.
The dark color and thick consistency are indicators that you have a true full-spectrum extract. Clear or golden oils are typically more refined and have had compounds removed.
History and Philosophy
Rick Simpson, a Canadian activist, began making cannabis oil in 2003 for personal medical use. He shared his process widely, and it gained popularity in medical and therapeutic cannabis communities. Simpson's philosophy was that full-spectrum extraction - using the whole plant - offered more therapeutic benefit than isolated cannabinoids.
While there's limited peer-reviewed research specifically on RSO vs. other extraction methods, the anecdotal support from medical users is substantial. Many in the therapeutic cannabis community believe full-spectrum extracts offer better results than isolated cannabinoids for certain conditions.
RSO has become particularly associated with users seeking therapeutic benefits rather than recreational effects.
How RSO is Made
RSO production involves:
- Starting material: Usually trim, shake, or lower-grade flower (making RSO more affordable than extract from premium flower)
- Solvent extraction: Ethanol or another food-grade alcohol is used to dissolve cannabinoids, terpenes, and plant compounds
- Decarboxylation: The plant material is heated before extraction to convert THCA to THC (making it psychoactive)
- Filtering: Plant material is filtered out
- Solvent evaporation: Ethanol is evaporated, typically using low heat and vacuum
- Final product: A dark, thick oil remains
The whole-plant approach means RSO retains chlorophyll and waxes that are removed in more refined extracts. This contributes to the dark color and the therapeutic philosophy - nothing valuable is discarded.
Consumption Methods
RSO is unique because it's not designed for smoking or vaping like many other concentrates. Common consumption methods include:
Oral Ingestion (Most Common):
- A small amount (rice-grain to pea-sized) is swallowed or placed under the tongue
- Acts like an edible - takes 1-2 hours to onset, lasts 6-12 hours
- Dosing is typically measured in small amounts (25-50mg THC per dose)
- Many people take it at night or when they have a full day clear
On Capsules:
- RSO is placed in empty gelatin capsules for discreet, portable dosing
- Easier to dose precisely than measuring from a syringe
- Takes 1-2 hours to onset like oral ingestion
Topical Application:
- Applied directly to skin, usually for localized relief
- Most RSO remains on the surface and doesn't create intoxication
- Works similarly to cannabis balms
Sublingual (Under the Tongue):
- Placed under the tongue for absorption through sublingual tissue
- Faster onset than swallowing (30-45 minutes)
- Some cannabinoids absorb directly into the bloodstream this way
In Food:
- Mixed into fat-based foods (peanut butter, coconut oil, butter)
- Works like an edible with standard edible timing
Most RSO users take it orally for maximum absorption and longest duration of effects.
Dosing RSO
RSO dosing is different from other cannabis products because it's so concentrated.
Typical starting dose: 25mg THC (a rice-grain or small pea-sized amount)
Standard therapeutic doses: 50-100mg THC, sometimes higher for specific conditions
Heavy users: May take 200mg+ THC per dose
A single syringe of RSO (typically 1 gram) contains 500-900mg THC, so a small amount goes a long way.
The rule applies here too: start low and go slow. Especially since RSO has a long onset time (1-2 hours orally), it's easy to take too much if you don't wait for effects to peak before redosing.
Who Uses RSO?
RSO has several distinct user groups:
Therapeutic/Medical Users:
- People seeking full-spectrum cannabis for specific conditions
- Those preferring oral ingestion over smoking
- Users wanting long-lasting effects throughout the day or night
Sleep-Focused Users:
- The long duration and full-spectrum profile makes RSO popular for sleep support
- 50-100mg taken 1-2 hours before bed
High-Tolerance Users:
- RSO is potent and cost-effective for experienced users
- A little goes a long way
Whole-Plant Philosophy Believers:
- People who prefer full-spectrum extracts on principle
- Those skeptical of isolated cannabinoids
RSO vs. Other Extracts
| Extract Type | Spectrum | Onset | Duration | Best For | |---|---|---|---|---| | RSO | Full-spectrum | 1-2 hours oral | 6-12 hours | Therapeutic, sleep, long-lasting relief | | Distillate | Isolated cannabinoids | 5-15 min vape | 2-4 hours | Potency, discretion, immediate effects | | Live Resin | Full-spectrum | 5-15 min dab | 2-4 hours | Flavor, immediate effects | | Tincture | Varies | 15 min-2 hours | 4-8 hours | Precision dosing, discreet |
RSO stands apart because it's designed for oral ingestion and long-lasting effects, while most other concentrates are designed for smoking or vaping immediate effects.
Quality and Testing
Michigan requires RSO to meet the same testing standards as other products:
- Lab testing for potency (THC/CBD content)
- Pesticide screening
- Microbial testing (no mold or harmful bacteria)
- Residual solvent testing (should be virtually zero)
- Heavy metals screening
Look for RSO with full lab results available. Quality RSO should be dark (black or very dark brown) and have a thick, tar-like consistency. If it's clear or very thin, it's likely a different product or over-purified.
RSO at Olswell
We stock RSO from established Michigan producers at all four locations - Adrian], Grand Rapids], Kalkaska], and Traverse City].
RSO is typically more affordable than premium concentrates like live rosin, making it accessible for therapeutic users. First-time customers get 25% off all products, including RSO. Our staff can explain dosing and consumption methods to help you get started safely.
FAQ
Q: Is RSO psychoactive? A: Yes - most RSO is decarboxylated to convert THCA to THC, making it psychoactive. CBD-heavy RSO exists but is less common.
Q: Can I vape RSO? A: Not typically - RSO is too thick and dirty for most vape pens. Some people heat it in a dab rig, but oral ingestion is the standard method.
Q: How long does RSO last? A: Oral RSO typically lasts 6-12 hours or longer, depending on dose and individual metabolism.
Q: Is RSO more therapeutic than other extracts? A: Anecdotal evidence from users suggests many people prefer RSO for therapeutic purposes, but research is limited. The full-spectrum approach appeals to those who believe whole-plant extraction is superior.
Q: Can I make RSO at home? A: Technically yes - the process is legal in Michigan for personal use. But it involves flammable solvents and carries safety risks. Commercial RSO is a safer alternative.
Medical Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Cannabis products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with a healthcare provider before use.
Related Reading
Learn more about cannabis concentrates and products:
- Complete Cannabis Products Guide
- Live Rosin vs Live Resin Explained
- RSO and Tinctures at Olswell Traverse City
Age Disclaimer: For adults 21 and older only. Must present valid government-issued photo ID. Please consume responsibly.