Cannabis 101
What Is RSO? Rick Simpson Oil vs THC, Distillate and RSO Gummies
RSO, short for Rick Simpson Oil, is a thick, dark, full-extract cannabis oil that keeps much of the plant’s cannabinoids and other compounds. It is usually high in THC, so “RSO vs THC” isn’t an either-or: THC is a single cannabinoid, and RSO is a product that typically contains a lot of it. In Michigan, RSO is sold in oral syringes called darts, as tablets and in gummies.
What is RSO?
RSO is named after Rick Simpson, a Canadian who began making and promoting this kind of cannabis oil in the early 2000s. It is made by soaking cannabis in a solvent, traditionally food-grade alcohol, then evaporating the solvent away. What remains is a sticky, tar-like oil that is far less refined than distillate.
Because the whole plant extract is kept, RSO usually contains THC along with smaller amounts of other cannabinoids and plant compounds. It has a strong, earthy taste, which is one reason RSO is also sold in gummies and tablets.
Rick Simpson promoted RSO with health claims that have not been established by clinical research. We don’t make health claims about any product. If you have a medical question, talk to your doctor.
RSO vs THC vs distillate: what’s the difference?
THC is one cannabinoid. RSO and distillate are both products that contain it. Distillate is refined until it is mostly THC, with little taste or color. RSO is a less refined, full-extract oil that keeps more of the plant’s other compounds. Compare the tested THC on each label rather than going by the product name.
| Product | What it is | Texture | How it is usually used |
|---|---|---|---|
| RSO | Full-extract oil, typically made with alcohol | Thick, dark, tar-like | Taken orally from a syringe, or in tablets and gummies |
| Distillate | Refined extract that is mostly THC | Clear, thick oil | Vape carts, edibles, infused pre-rolls |
| Live rosin | Solventless oil pressed from ice-water hash | Badder, jam or sap | Dabbed or vaped |
RSO formats at Nature’s Remedy
On November 11, 2026, our Ferndale menu carried RSO in several formats, from brands including Rise, Cannalicious and SUNO. Stock changes daily, so check the live menu for what is in today.
- Syringes (darts): 1g RSO in an oral syringe, such as RSO by Rise and Cannalicious RSO Rest 1g Dart.
- Tablets: measured RSO tablets, such as SUNO RSO 20-count tablets.
- Gummies: RSO gummies with labeled milligrams per piece, such as Cannalicious Rest RSO 200mg gummies.
- RSO blends: full-spectrum RSO combined with live resin, such as SUNO Full Spectrum RSO + Live Resin.
How to read an RSO label
Find the total THC in the syringe or package, then the amount per serving. Syringes usually have markings so you can measure a small amount; tablets and gummies list milligrams per piece.
Taken by mouth, RSO acts like an edible: effects can take a while to start. Follow the package directions, start with a small amount and wait before taking more. Keep RSO in its labeled packaging, away from children and pets.
Frequently asked questions
What does RSO stand for?
RSO stands for Rick Simpson Oil, a full-extract cannabis oil named after Rick Simpson, who began making and promoting it in the early 2000s.
Is RSO the same as THC?
No. THC is a single cannabinoid. RSO is a full-extract oil that usually contains a high amount of THC along with other plant compounds. The label shows its tested THC.
Is RSO stronger than distillate?
Not usually by percentage. Distillate is refined to a higher THC concentration, while RSO keeps more of the plant’s other compounds. Compare the tested numbers on each label.
How is RSO taken?
RSO is most often taken by mouth, measured from a syringe, or in tablets and gummies. Follow the package directions and start with a small amount.
Can I buy RSO gummies in Ferndale?
Yes. Nature’s Remedy in Ferndale carries RSO gummies, syringes and tablets. Check the live menu for today’s selection, then order for pickup or delivery.
Find your next pick
Explore our menu or ask the team about current availability and offers.
