Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a highly concentrated, dark, and thick cannabis extract, typically packaged in a measured syringe for precise administration. This potent oil is a full-spectrum extract, containing a wide array of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other beneficial plant compounds. The syringe is designed for accurate dosing, not injection, and helps manage the oil’s viscous consistency. Learning how to properly prepare, measure, and consume RSO is paramount for a safe and effective experience.
Preparing the Syringe and Measuring the Starting Dose
RSO’s inherent thickness, especially if stored cool, requires warming to ensure it flows smoothly from the syringe. To achieve the necessary viscosity for accurate measurement, gently warm the syringe by holding it in your hand for several minutes. A more efficient method is submerging the entire syringe in a cup of warm water for a minute or two. Avoid using hot water, as excessive heat can degrade the cannabinoids within the oil.
Once the RSO has softened, remove the cap and hold the syringe upright to dispense the oil. Syringes are marked with precise measurements, allowing you to visually track the amount being dispensed. Given RSO’s high concentration, start with an extremely small amount to gauge your body’s reaction. This initial dose is often described as a fraction of a grain of rice, or approximately 1/60th of a gram (about 0.015 grams).
To measure this minute quantity, slowly depress the plunger while watching the syringe’s markings and the oil emerging from the tip. Because the oil is sticky, it may continue to dispense after you stop pressing the plunger. Stop just before you reach your desired mark, then gently pull the plunger back slightly to prevent excess oil from dripping. After ingesting the dose, wait several hours to observe the full effect before considering a second dose, as the onset can be delayed, particularly when swallowed.
Recommended Methods of Consumption
Once the initial dose is measured, there are several effective methods for consumption, each offering a different absorption rate and duration of effect. The most common internal method is sublingual administration. This involves placing the oil directly under the tongue and holding it there for 60 to 90 seconds. This allows the cannabinoids to be absorbed through the mucous membranes directly into the bloodstream, leading to a faster onset, usually within 15 to 45 minutes.
Alternatively, you can swallow the RSO dose directly (oral ingestion). When swallowed, the oil passes through the digestive system and is metabolized by the liver, converting delta-9 THC into the more potent compound 11-Hydroxy-THC. This process leads to a slower onset, typically taking 30 minutes to one hour, but the effects are often more prolonged and intense. To aid absorption and mask the robust taste, mix the dose with a fatty food, such as yogurt, peanut butter, or coconut oil.
RSO is also suitable for topical application, providing localized relief without the systemic psychoactive effects of ingestion. A small amount of RSO can be applied directly to the targeted area of the skin. The cannabinoids are absorbed locally, offering benefits without entering the bloodstream in concentrations high enough to cause a high. Because RSO is a thick concentrate, you can mix it with a carrier cream or oil to make it easier to spread over a larger area.
Syringe Maintenance and Proper Storage
Proper care ensures the remaining oil maintains potency and the dispensing mechanism remains functional. Immediately after dispensing a dose, use a clean tissue or cotton swab to wipe away residual oil from the syringe tip. This prevents the tip from becoming clogged with hardened oil before the next use. Once the tip is clean, replace the cap securely to create an airtight seal and prevent leaks.
For optimal preservation of the oil’s cannabinoid and terpene profile, store the syringe in a cool, dark place, away from direct sunlight or heat. While room temperature storage is acceptable, refrigeration is recommended to best maintain the oil’s potency over time. Refrigeration may cause the oil to solidify, requiring a slightly longer warming period before the next dose can be easily dispensed.
As a general safety measure, always keep the RSO syringe clearly labeled and stored out of the reach of children and pets. The oil’s high concentration makes it a hazardous item if accessed accidentally. The typical shelf life for RSO stored under these conditions ranges from 12 to 24 months, but maintaining a cool, dark environment is the best practice for extending its efficacy.