Our Services
Medical Information
Helpful Resources
Published on: 9/15/2026
Rick Simpson Oil is a highly concentrated cannabis extract, and typical protocols start with a very small dose about the size of half a grain of rice taken up to three times daily, gradually increased over roughly 90 days, though it can be taken orally, placed under the tongue, or applied to the skin. Because RSO is extremely potent in THC, dosing depends on your tolerance, body weight, other medications, and legal access, and side effects like sedation, dizziness, and anxiety are common when doses rise too quickly. There are several important factors and safety considerations to weigh, so see below to understand more before starting or adjusting a regimen.
If you are considering RSO because of ongoing symptoms, pain, nausea, sleep trouble, or something you cannot quite explain, it helps to know what you may actually be dealing with first. Take a free, instant, online symptom check to get clearer insight into possible causes and practical next steps, including when to talk with a clinician.
Last reviewed for medical accuracy: 09/14/2026
How Much Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) Should I Take and How Do I Use It?
Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a concentrated cannabis extract developed by hemp activist Rick Simpson. It’s gained attention for its high cannabinoid content—particularly THC—and its anecdotal use in managing pain, inflammation, and other symptoms. This guide covers general dosing recommendations, administration methods, and important safety notes. Always discuss any serious health concerns with a qualified healthcare provider.
No “One-Size-Fits-All” Dose
• RSO is extremely potent (often 60–90% THC).
• Individual response varies based on tolerance, body weight, metabolism, and the condition being addressed.
• Start low and go slow.
Typical RSO Protocol (Rick Simpson’s Original Recommendation)
• Total Amount: Approx. 60 grams of RSO over ~90 days.
• Daily Intake: ~0.5 gram per day (divided into three or more doses).
• Goal: Complete a full 60-gram course steadily, not all at once.
Micro-Dosing Approach
For those new to cannabis or seeking milder symptom relief:
Moderate Dosing for Symptom Control
High-Dose Therapeutic Protocol
Oral Administration (Most Common)
Topical Application
Suppository (Less Common)
Inhalation (Not Typical for RSO)
Benefits (Anecdotal/Preliminary Studies)
Possible Side Effects
Note: Side effects often decrease as tolerance builds. If they persist or become severe, reduce your dose or pause usage.
By following these guidelines, you can responsibly explore RSO’s potential while minimizing risks. Always prioritize safety, stay informed, and partner with healthcare professionals for the best outcomes.
(References)
* Cannabis and cannabinoids. Med Lett Drugs Ther. 2016 Aug 1;58(1500):97-8. PMID: 27466748.
* MacCallum CA, Russo EB. Practical considerations in medical cannabis administration and dosing. Eur J Intern Med. 2018 Mar;49:12-19. doi: 10.1016/j.ejim.2018.01.004. Epub 2018 Jan 4. PMID: 29307505.
* Lucas CJ, Galettis P, Schneider J. The pharmacokinetics and the pharmacodynamics of cannabinoids. Br J Clin Pharmacol. 2018 Nov;84(11):2477-2482. doi: 10.1111/bcp.13710. Epub 2018 Aug 7. PMID: 30001569; PMCID: PMC6177698.
* Zipursky JS, Bogler OD, Stall NM. Edible cannabis. CMAJ. 2020 Feb 18;192(7):E162. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.191305. PMID: 32071107; PMCID: PMC7030881.
* Senderovich H, Patel P, Jimenez Lopez B, Waicus S. A Systematic Review on Cannabis Hyperemesis Syndrome and Its Management Options. Med Princ Pract. 2022;31(1):29-38. doi: 10.1159/000520417. Epub 2021 Nov 1. PMID: 34724666; PMCID: PMC8995641.
* de Andrade Silva S, Velozo C, de Almeida Souto Montenegro L, de Sousa WV, da Cunha Isaltino M, de Fátima Formiga Melo Diniz M, de Albuquerque DS. Effect of Preoperative Oral Cannabidiol-Rich Cannabis Extract on Anxiety and Postoperative Pain after Endodontic Treatment: A Double-Blind Randomized Clinical Trial. J Endod. 2024 Dec;50(12):1698-1704. doi: 10.1016/j.joen.2024.10.010. Epub 2024 Nov 4. PMID: 39505200.
* Zequeira S, Gazarov EA, Güvenli AA, Berthold EC, Senetra AS, Febo M, Hiranita T, McMahon LR, Sharma A, McCurdy CR, Setlow B, Bizon JL. Effects of cannabis smoke and oral Δ9THC on cognition in young adult and aged rats. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2025 Apr;242(4):835-853. doi: 10.1007/s00213-025-06754-6. Epub 2025 Feb 7. PMID: 39918581; PMCID: PMC12034345.
* Velzeboer R, Malas A, Wei S, Berger R, Parmar V, Lai WWK. Cannabis and sleep architecture: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Sleep Med Rev. 2025 Dec;84:102164. doi: 10.1016/j.smrv.2025.102164. Epub 2025 Sep 12. PMID: 40967124.
* Cury RM, da Silva T, Cezar-Dos-Santos F, Fakih YRC, Narvaez KAR, Gouvea MC, Espínola C, Ferreira CF, de Castro WAC, Pamplona FA, Silva EGD, Bicca MA, Nascimento FP. A randomized clinical trial of low-dose cannabis extract in Alzheimer's disease. J Alzheimers Dis. 2025 Dec;108(4):1602-1613. doi: 10.1177/13872877251389608. Epub 2025 Oct 29. PMID: 41160460.
* Hsu M, Shah A, Jordan A, Gold MS, Hill KP. Therapeutic Use of Cannabis and Cannabinoids: A Review. JAMA. 2026 Jan 27;335(4):345-359. doi: 10.1001/jama.2025.19433. PMID: 41296368.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.