Preparing Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) for Therapeutic Use

Critical Safety Warning

RSO is intended for oral or sublingual use. Never attempt to dab, vape, or smoke this extract. The extraction process utilizes high-proof solvents that pose a fire hazard; proceed with caution.

Environmental Safety: Perform this process exclusively outdoors or in a space equipped with professional-grade, explosion-proof ventilation.
Ignition Hazards: Alcohol vapors are invisible and flammable. Eliminate all open flames, sparks, cigarettes, and electronics from your workspace before you begin.

Necessary Supplies

28 grams (1 ounce): Decarboxylated cannabis flower.
1–2 liters: 99% isopropyl alcohol or 190-proof food-grade grain alcohol.
Two large glass jars.
Fine-mesh strainer or cheesecloth.
Electric rice cooker: Never use a gas stove or open-flame heating element.
Pyrex dish.
Amber glass syringes: For light-protected storage.

The Extraction Process

1. Decarboxylation

Before extraction, you must activate the cannabinoids. Spread your flower on a baking sheet and heat it at 240°F for 30 to 40 minutes. This converts THCA into active THC, which supports the overall potency of the final oil.

2. The Cold Extraction Method

Place your decarboxylated flower and your solvent of choice in the freezer for at least 24 hours. Using frozen materials reduces the amount of chlorophyll stripped from the plant, resulting in a cleaner finished product.

3. Agitation

Submerge the frozen flower in the cold alcohol. Shake the jar vigorously for 3 to 5 minutes. Avoid over-shaking; anything beyond five minutes may pull unwanted waxes and plant bitters into your extract, affecting the quality.

4. Filtration

Pour the mixture through your cheesecloth or fine-mesh strainer into the second clean glass jar. Press or squeeze the material to recover every drop of the solvent.

5. Solvent Evaporation

Transfer your filtered liquid into the electric rice cooker. Set the temperature to maintain between 180°F and 200°F. This phase usually lasts 1 to 3 hours. Maintain constant airflow throughout the process to clear alcohol vapors from the area.

6. Final Collection

When the bubbling ceases, the alcohol has evaporated. Scrape the remaining warm, thick oil into your amber glass syringes. You can generally expect a yield of 3 to 5 grams of RSO from one ounce of flower.

Establishing a Dosing Routine

RSO is concentrated. Precision is your best defense against overwhelming effects.

The Starting Dose: Begin with a portion roughly the size of half a grain of rice (approximately 25mg to 50mg of THC).
Administration: Swallow the dose directly or place it under the tongue. To make dosing easier and support absorption, consider mixing the RSO with a carrier like organic coconut or MCT oil.
Gradual Titration: Increase your intake incrementally over several weeks to allow your body to adjust.

Storage and Preservation

To maintain potency, keep your preparation away from direct light and high temperatures. Amber glass syringes are essential for blocking UV degradation. Store your syringes in the refrigerator or freezer; because RSO is highly viscous, warm the syringe in your hands for a few minutes to make the oil easier to dispense.

Essential Safety Checklist

Spark-Free Zone: Ensure zero proximity to electronics or static-prone items.
Electric Only: Use only electric heating elements; never use gas appliances.
Full Evaporation: Verify that no trace of solvent remains before ingestion.
Secure Storage: Always keep concentrated extracts in a locked, child-proof container out of reach.

Legal Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always seek the advice of a physician regarding a medical condition. Efficacy has not been confirmed by FDA-approved research. Check your local laws regarding cannabis and terpene use.