In the world of cannabis, few products carry as much mystery and reverence as RSO. Short for Rick Simpson Oil, RSO is a full-spectrum cannabis extract known for its incredible potency, sticky texture, and cult-like following among medical cannabis users. It’s not just another cannabis oil — it’s a therapeutic powerhouse that’s sparked countless personal testimonies of relief and healing.
Whether you’re new to cannabis or a seasoned consumer exploring concentrated options, understanding what RSO is, how it works, and why people use it can help you make informed choices for your health and well-being.
At Commencement Bay Cannabis, we’re proud to carry premium RSO products in Tacoma, and this guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
What Exactly Is RSO?
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a highly concentrated cannabis extract that contains a wide range of compounds from the cannabis plant, including THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, terpenes, and more. It’s known for being incredibly potent, with THC levels typically ranging between 60% and 90%, making it one of the strongest cannabis oils on the market.
It has a dark, thick, and sticky consistency, resembling tar, and is usually packaged in small plastic syringes to allow for precise dosing. Despite the syringe format, RSO is not for injecting. It’s intended for oral ingestion, topical use, or infusion into food.
Unlike THC distillates or other refined concentrates, RSO uses the entire plant, extracting all of its cannabinoids and compounds. This process results in a full-spectrum extract that’s believed to create an “entourage effect,” where all the elements work together for a stronger impact.
Who Is Rick Simpson?
The story of RSO begins with Rick Simpson, a Canadian engineer and cannabis advocate. After suffering a severe head injury at work in the 1990s, Simpson experienced chronic symptoms including dizziness, tinnitus, and headaches that conventional medicine failed to relieve.
Desperate for relief, he turned to cannabis. Years later, after being diagnosed with skin cancer, he created his own oil by soaking cannabis plant matter in a solvent to extract the cannabinoids. He applied the resulting oil to the cancerous spots on his skin and reported that they disappeared within days.
Though Rick Simpson’s claims haven’t been officially verified in clinical studies, his story inspired thousands to explore the healing potential of cannabis. His homemade oil became known as Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) and has been used by patients around the world ever since.
How RSO Is Made
RSO is created through a solvent-based extraction process. High-quality cannabis flower is soaked in a solvent, typically food-grade ethanol or isopropyl alcohol, which pulls out cannabinoids, terpenes, fats, waxes, and other plant compounds.
Once the plant material is removed, the solution is gently heated to evaporate the solvent, leaving behind a thick, dark oil. The final product retains all the plant’s natural elements, including chlorophyll and other compounds that give it its strong taste and color.
While some home producers attempt to make RSO themselves, this is not recommended due to the high flammability of the solvents involved. Licensed producers in Washington State use safe, lab-grade extraction techniques and rigorous testing to ensure the final product is clean, potent, and free of contaminants.
At Commencement Bay Cannabis, we source RSO only from licensed, lab-tested producers, so you know you’re getting a safe and effective product.
What Makes RSO Unique?
What sets RSO apart from other cannabis oils is its full-spectrum composition and its extremely high potency. Many modern concentrates focus on isolating specific cannabinoids, like THC distillate or CBD isolate, which are purified and stripped of other compounds.
RSO, on the other hand, retains all the active compounds from the plant, including lesser-known cannabinoids and natural fats. This gives it a broader therapeutic profile and allows users to experience the entourage effect in full.
Another factor is its versatility. RSO can be:
- Swallowed or placed under the tongue
- Applied topically to localized areas
- Mixed into food or infused into capsules
This adaptability makes it a favorite among patients with varying conditions and preferences.
What Do People Use RSO For?
Because RSO is so concentrated and full-spectrum, it’s commonly used by people dealing with chronic or severe medical conditions. While research is still catching up, anecdotal evidence and early studies suggest RSO may support:
- Chronic pain relief
- Appetite stimulation (especially for those undergoing chemotherapy)
- Nausea control
- Severe inflammation
- Insomnia or sleep disorders
- Stress and anxiety reduction
- PTSD management
- Support for neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis or epilepsy
Some users have also used RSO as part of personal cancer protocols, particularly after hearing Rick Simpson’s original story. However, it’s important to note that RSO is not an FDA-approved cancer treatment, and anyone considering it should consult a licensed healthcare provider.
How to Take RSO (Dosing & Methods)
Because RSO is extremely potent, the most important rule is start low and go slow. Even a rice-sized drop contains a high dose of THC, and effects can last 6–8 hours or longer.
Here’s how most patients begin:
- Week 1: Start with a drop about the size of a grain of rice once per day
- Week 2–3: If well-tolerated, increase to two drops per day, spaced apart
- Week 4 and beyond: Gradually build tolerance and dosage as needed
Always allow your body time to adjust. Even experienced cannabis users should proceed with caution when starting RSO.
Ways to Use RSO:
- Orally: Swallowed directly or mixed with a small piece of bread or fruit
- Sublingually: Placed under the tongue for quicker onset
- Topically: Applied directly to the skin for localized issues
- In Food: Infused into butter, oils, or homemade capsules
Because RSO is sticky and thick, using it can be a little messy at first, but a small amount goes a long way.
Potential Side Effects
Like all cannabis products, RSO can cause temporary side effects, especially in users new to THC or full-spectrum extracts. The most common include:
- Drowsiness or fatigue
- Dry mouth
- Anxiety or restlessness (if too much is taken)
- Changes in appetite
- Dizziness
- Psychoactive effects like euphoria or altered perception
These effects typically diminish as your body builds tolerance. If you accidentally take too much, the best approach is to stay hydrated, rest, and give it time to pass. RSO’s effects can last much longer than smoking or vaping, so plan accordingly.
RSO vs. Other Cannabis Oils
There are many cannabis oils on the market, and it can be confusing to tell them apart. Here’s how RSO compares:
Product
THC Content
Spectrum
Texture
Common Use
RSO
60–90%
Full-spectrum
Thick, sticky
Long-lasting relief, serious conditions
THC Distillate
85–95%
THC-only
Clear, thin
Vaping, dabbing, edibles
CBD Oil
0–0.3% THC
CBD isolate or broad-spectrum
Thin
Anxiety, inflammation, no high
Tinctures
10–30% THC/CBD
Varies
Liquid
Sublingual, microdosing
RSO is unique because it’s unrefined, raw, and plant-intact. That gives it a complexity other extracts can’t replicate.
Is RSO Legal in Washington?
Yes, RSO is legal in Washington for both recreational and medical cannabis users. As long as you’re purchasing from a licensed dispensary, you’re within your rights to buy and possess it.
To purchase RSO:
- You must be 21 or older
- Or hold a valid medical marijuana authorization
- Always store RSO in a cool, dark place out of reach of children
At Commencement Bay Cannabis, we ensure every RSO product is lab-tested, clearly labeled, and sourced from trusted Washington growers and processors.
Where to Buy RSO in Tacoma, WA
Looking for RSO near you? At Commencement Bay Cannabis, we carry a wide selection of Rick Simpson Oil products, from full THC options to balanced CBD blends.
We work with some of the most respected producers in Washington to offer:
- High-THC RSO syringes
- CBD:THC blends for gentler effects
- Topicals and capsules infused with RSO
- RSO-compatible edibles and more
Our budtenders are trained to help you understand dosing, usage, and what to expect, whether you’re new to cannabis or simply new to RSO. Explore our current RSO selection
Final Thoughts
RSO isn’t just a cannabis extract. For many, it’s a lifeline, a potent, plant-powered tool for managing pain, calming the nervous system, and supporting the body in healing. Its unique makeup and rich history give it a special place in the world of cannabis wellness.
Whether you’re seeking an alternative to pharmaceuticals or looking to supplement a wellness regimen with something natural and strong, RSO may be worth exploring. Just remember: potency means responsibility. Always start small, listen to your body, and reach out if you need help.
At Commencement Bay Cannabis, we’re here to make that journey easier. Visit us in Tacoma or shop online to find RSO that’s tested, trusted, and tailored to your wellness goals.
