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30/Jun/2021

Who is Rick Simpson and what is his oil? 

Rick Simpson oil is a cannabis extract that can be used as an effective treatment for cancer.

The story of Rick Simpson and his discovery of the oil has been told by him in two interviews, both available on YouTube: one from 2003, and another from 2008.

He had heard about some research done back in 1974 where THC was found to kill tumor cells in mice. He obtained some high-grade hemp oil which he began to use himself first before administering it to anyone else. His use of the oil caused a dramatic reduction in his skin cancer lesions within just three weeks after starting with it (from over 60 down to only four). 

In this article, we will talk about the usage of RSO, treatment options, consumption and dosing, and a conclusion of how you can determine if it’s an appropriate treatment option for you. 

Usage of

RSO is said to treat a variety of ailments including

  • Cancer
  • Infections
  • High blood pressure
  • Depression
  • Insomnia
  • Multiple Sclerosis
  • Arthritis
  • Asthma

From a research perspective, there’s been a good amount of activity involving cell samples and animal models that look at the effects of cannabinoids on cancer growth.

A 2014 study on mice examined the effects of THC and CBD extracts alongside radiation therapy. The cannabis extracts appeared to increase the effectiveness of radiation against an aggressive type of brain cancer. According to the study’s authors, these results suggest that THC and CBD may help to prepare cancer cells to respond better to radiation therapy.

RSO and Pregnancy

Whether the oil can be safe to take during pregnancy or breastfeeding is currently unknown, but it is recommended to abstain if pregnant or breastfeeding. As with any shift in treatment, you need to talk with your doctor about this before taking the medication. We always recommend doing so that your health is protected from any negative effects.

Treatment Modality

The process is simple; it can be applied onto skin or food items which can then be ingested orally if necessary: by simply spreading RSO over bandages covering any area of concern, one is able to treat their condition without inhalation. In fact, RSO is not intended to be inhaled; it is an edible or topical only. 

Consumption & Dosing

Although there is no recorded death from a cannabis-related issue in the United States since the 1970s when it was legalized for medical use only, adverse effects can happen if you consume too much marijuana oil at once.

The goal is to gradually consume 60 grams of Rick Simpson Oil over the course of a 90-day period when looking for symptom relief for a condition or for medical benefits. This is a large amount of dosing, so know the signs of what too much cannabis is. Nausea, vomiting, and dizziness are all signs of excessive consumption of Rick Simpson Oil. Remember, CBD is always an antidote to too much THC and will help reduce the high effect. 

Is RSO Right for You?

Being that there are so many conditions that can be potentially treated with RSO, in the end, the decision to treat with RSO is a personal choice that should be made with the input of your cannabis or attending physician. It can be an extremely helpful treatment option, but as with any shift in a personal treatment plan, you should discuss it in-depth with your doctor.


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Dr. Kelly Ennix King is a licensed medical cannabis physician in Florida and California.

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