Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is one of the most talked-about cannabis extracts in the plant medicine world.
Known for its deep color, potent effects, and full-spectrum profile, RSO stands apart from typical cannabis products and concentrates.
In this guide, we’ll break down what RSO is, how it’s made, why people use it, and key safety considerations.
What is RSO?
RSO is a highly concentrated, full-spectrum cannabis extract prized for its potency and broad range of cannabinoids and terpenes.
Unlike oils or tinctures that focus on just one cannabinoid, RSO preserves most of the plant’s natural compounds, giving it a more complete chemical profile.
This full-spectrum nature is one reason RSO is popular among medical cannabis patients.
Many explore it as a way to support symptom management, including issues like nausea, appetite challenges, sleep interruptions, or discomfort.
Its exceptional potency means that it’s usually taken in very small amounts, and the effects may vary depending on the individual, the dose, and the method of consumption.
RSO is named after Rick Simpson, the cannabis advocate who helped bring this extract into public awareness.
Simpson’s story — from personal experimentation to sharing RSO with others — has become a key part of the extract’s history.
What is the difference between CBD and RSO?
RSO is far more concentrated and psychoactive than typical cannabidiol (CBD) products, making it better suited for patients seeking a potent, full-spectrum option rather than casual wellness support.
CBD and RSO differ in both composition and effect:
What is the difference between distillate and RSO?
Distillates are highly refined cannabis concentrates made through a multi-step process.
THCA, which is THC’s precursor that doesn’t have any effects, is first extracted from plant matter.
Rarely, though, is THCA extracted alone — usually, other plant compounds join it upon extraction.
That’s why the extracted THCA is mixed with ethanol and frozen, then filtered and evaporated to leave behind oil.
This oil is then decarboxylated, meaning it’s heated to activate THC’s potential therapeutic benefits (without this step, it would remain THCA).
From there, short-path distillation (vacuum pressure and additional heat) separates THC from other plant material, leaving behind nearly pure THC distillate.
RSO, by comparison, retains not just THC but the plant’s full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes.
The choice between distillate and RSO comes down to whether someone wants isolated THC effects or the broader, full-spectrum experience.
| Feature | CBD Oil | RSO |
|---|---|---|
| Intoxication | Non-intoxicating | High tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) content, so will likely feel very intoxicating |
| Compound spectrum | CBD-dominant, little to no THC | Full-spectrum: THC, CBD, other cannabinoids & terpenes |
| Primary application | Everyday wellness support, mild symptom management | Potent support for symptom management; high intensity, consumed sparingly |
How is RSO made?
RSO is produced through a precise but straightforward extraction process that preserves the plant’s full spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes.
The process usually begins with high-quality cannabis flower, which is soaked in a food-safe solvent (often ethanol or another alcohol) to draw out the plant’s active compounds.
Once the cannabinoids and terpenes are extracted, the solvent is carefully evaporated, leaving behind a thick, dark, full-spectrum oil.
Because the process preserves most of the plant’s natural compounds, RSO differs from more refined extracts such as distillates or isolates.
The result is a concentrated product with a potent mix of cannabinoids and terpenes, giving it a profile that many medical patients find valuable for symptom management.
What are the benefits of RSO?
RSO is valued for its exceptional potency and full-spectrum cannabinoid profile, which sets it apart from many other cannabis products.
While RSO isn’t a cure for any condition, patients often find it helpful for managing symptoms across a range of areas.
- Exceptional potency: RSO contains high levels of THC alongside a variety of cannabinoids and terpenes. Its concentrated nature means even a minimal dose can have noticeable effects.
- Full-spectrum profile: Unlike distillates or isolated cannabinoids, RSO preserves most of the plant’s natural compounds. This broad chemical profile may enhance the overall therapeutic benefits through a phenomenon called the entourage effect.
- Potential to address common symptoms: Many patients consume RSO to manage symptoms such as nausea, appetite fluctuations, sleep disruptions, or general discomfort. Many of these concerns become more common with age, which is why talking openly and thoughtfully about cannabis with older adults can be especially important.
How to consume RSO
RSO can be enjoyed via tinctures, edibles, and syringes, and choosing the right method depends on your preferences and tolerance.
Because it’s highly concentrated, starting with very small amounts is always recommended.
- Tinctures: RSO tinctures are taken sublingually (under the tongue), allowing their cannabinoids to absorb relatively quickly. Start with a rice-grain-sized amount and wait about an hour to gauge effects before adjusting. Taking too much at once can intensify psychoactive effects, so gradual dosing helps keep your experience comfortable.
- Edibles: RSO gummies are also available, or the oil can be mixed into foods such as smoothies, sauces, or baked goods. This is a great way to mask the strong flavor and enjoy slower, longer-lasting effects. Begin with a tiny portion — edibles take longer to take effect, so avoid doubling up too quickly.
- Syringes: RSO syringes make precise dosing simple. You can take the oil directly or mix it into food. Again, given its potency, it’s essential to start with a small amount and increase gradually.
6 RSO products to try at Blue Oak
Blue Oak offers a range of full-spectrum RSO products to fit different preferences and lifestyles.
Here are some of the standout options currently on our menu:
Black Label RSO Syringes: These syringes allow for precise measurement of RSO, whether taken directly or mixed into food. Black Label currently offers Ghost Milk and Ice Cream Cake varieties for a full-spectrum experience with options for different flavor profiles.
Encore RSO soft lozenges: With a variety of flavor options, Encore’s RSO soft lozenges make it easy to enjoy RSO without the strong taste of raw oil. They’re a convenient, discreet option for precise dosing and on-the-go consumption.
Treeworks Collective Rocket Drops: These RSO-based drops from Treeworks Collective combine CBG, THCV, and THC with ginseng and natural caffeine from yerba mate.
Encore RSO milk chocolate: Available in both sativa and indica varieties, these chocolates combine the familiar sweetness of milk chocolate with the full-spectrum benefits of RSO.
OGeez! RSO gummies: RSO in gummy form, OGeez! offers a familiar edible experience with the potency of full-spectrum cannabis.
Drool RSO Syringe: Another high-quality option for those looking for concentrated, full-spectrum RSO, Drool makes it simple to take RSO directly or incorporate it into recipes for a flavor-friendly experience.
FAQs about RSO
Will RSO get me high?
Yes. RSO contains a good amount of THC, so it almost always produces psychoactive effects.
How strong it feels depends on your dose, how you take it, and your personal tolerance.
Is RSO more potent than edibles?
Generally, yes.
Because RSO is concentrated and full-spectrum, even a tiny amount can feel stronger than a typical edible.
What’s stronger than RSO?
Some THC distillates may pack more THC per dose, but they don’t have RSO’s full range of cannabinoids and terpenes.
“Stronger” can mean different things depending on what you’re looking for, but there’s really not much that’s stronger than RSO.
Does RSO give you munchies?
It can!
Like other THC products, RSO may make you hungrier, but everyone’s experience is a little different.
How long does RSO take to kick in?
It depends on how you consume it.
Consuming RSO under the tongue (sublingually) usually works within 15 to 45 minutes, while edibles or foods can take 30 minutes to two hours.
The effects are likely to last a while, so start small and give it time to work before taking more.
Get potent RSO products at Blue Oak
Ready to explore the benefits of full-spectrum RSO?
Blue Oak offers a variety of high-quality RSO products designed to fit different preferences and lifestyles.
Browse our menu online or visit us in-store to see what’s available and discover your ideal way to experience RSO.
