Ralph Simpson Oil (RSO), a highly potent, dark, and viscous cannabis extract. It was developed by Canadian activist Rick Simpson to treat his own skin cancer symptoms and has since become widely known for its potential therapeutic benefits. What is Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)? RSO is a full-spectrum or “whole-plant” extract, meaning it retains nearly all of the cannabis plant’s natural compounds, including cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids. Appearance: It typically looks like thick, dark”oily tar” or syrup. Potency: RSO is known for exceptionally high levels of THC, sometimes reaching concentrations as high as 90%. Extraction: It is traditionally made by soaking the whole cannabis plant (often indica strains) in a solvent like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, then evaporating the solvent to leave the concentrated oil behind.
Common Uses and Potential Benefits
While scientific evidence for some of Rick Simpson’s original claims remains anecdotal, many users and early studies suggest it may help with several serious conditions:

Cancer Support: Often used to manage side effects like nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite during chemotherapy. Chronic Pain: Valued for its ability to provide deep physical relaxation and relief from persistent pain, such as back pain or severe migraines. Inflammation: Reported to help with inflammatory conditions like arthritis and multiple sclerosis. Sleep and Mood: Its sedative properties are frequently used to treat insomnia, anxiety, and PTSD. How to Use RSO Because it is extremely potent, accurate dosing is critical. It is typically sold in graduated syringes for precise measurement. Oral/Sublingual: A common dose is roughly the size of half a grain of rice. It can be swallowed directly, placed under the tongue, or mixed into food. Topical: Applied directly to the skin for localized issues like skin lesions or localized pain. Inhalation: While technically possible to smoke or dab with flower, it is generally not recommended because it contains residual plant matter and fats that do not burn cleanly. Warning: RSO’s high THC content can cause intense psychoactive effects, dizziness, or paranoia, especially for new users.

I hope this provides a good introduction to RSO!