When many people hear of Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), they think it’s some kind of snake oil that’s somehow linked to backstreet marijuana. That can’t be further from the truth; RSO is a legitimate form of cannabis oil that typically has high THC content and is mostly indica leaning. It follows that RSO is derived from marijuana strains that are indica dominant and have high THC, this definitely rules out hemp.
Going a little back in history, RSO was popularized by a man of Canadian descent by the name of Rick Simpson. Mr. Simpson, who’s a marijuana activist, began using RSO to treat cancerous spots on his face and neck back in 2013. When he applied RSO to the spots on his face and neck they cleared up within days. How amazing is that!
RSO, being high in THC, has been used to treat:
Indica leaning strains give a strong body hit and have been used to relieve chronic fatigue, chronic muscle aches, insomnia, and chronic pain. However, RSO’s popularity has emerged due to real world evidence (RWE) , cancer patients using it reporting it can be used to treat cancer.
The best thing about RSO is that once you lay your hands on the perfect strain you can DIY at home.
The best strains for making RSO are very potent and sedative; here is a list of the 9 best strains that meet this criterion.
1. Platinum OG
Platinum OG is a heavy indica strain with at 75 indica and 25 sativa effects. The THC is usually above average, with samples testing at 25%- 27%. RSO created from this strain is likely to cause deep physical sedation and also treat a number of conditions as outlined above.
2. Strawberry Banana
This fruity named strain is an indica dominant strain with 70%: 30% ratios. It’s been named as one of the most potent strains as the THC ranges between 27%-31%. RSO made from this strain will have full-bodies effects as well as a strong head buzz. Since it’s a sweet-smelling strain, it can be enjoyed by first-timers who may not be familiar with the dankness of other earthier strains. From a medicinal perspective, this strain is ideal for relieving pain, inflammation, PTSD, and stress.
3. Fat Banana
Fat Banana is an indica dominant hybrid strain that is closely related to Banana OG. It has THC in excess of 25% and will definitely cause euphoria. It also causes a heavy body stone that will leave users glued to the couch, hence its best taken in the evening. RSO made from this strain will have a delicious aroma and taste as the earthiness is masked banana flavors. Fat Banana has been used to relieve arthritis, insomnia, and fatigue.
4. White Tahoe Cookies
White Tahoe Cookies is an indica dominant cross between Tahoe OG and Girl Scout Cookies. The THC content lingers around 27% while the hit is fast to set in. RSO made from White Tahoe Cookies should have a heavy indicaness that calms sore muscles and eases away fatigue. Patients with chronic pain may also enjoy indulging in this strain as it is likely to ease away the pain.
5. Irish Cream
Irish Cream is a cannabis strain that’s as creamy and intoxicating as Bailey’s. It boasts of THC amounts that may exceed 27% and subsequently it may cause extreme “spaciness” for first time users.
Irish Cream was developed by Mighty Irish Seeds as a cross between Cookies and Cream and the Real McCoy strain. RSO made from this strain may be used to treat chronic pain, depression, and anxiety.
6. Godfather OG
Godfather OG is an award-winning indica hybrid cross that has causes whole body euphoria. It has THC as high as 28%-32% and can overwhelm even new users. The sweeping euphoria quickly translates to couch-lock and sleepiness, making this an ideal evening strain. RSO made from this strain is best used to ease stress and depression as well as insomnia.
7. Motor Breath
Motor Breath is another award-winning indica dominant hybrid strain. It is a cross between the popular Chemdawg strain and SVF OG Kush strain. The high given by this strain is insanely stimulating and energizing. Users often break into bouts of laughter and become chitty chatty after indulging in Motor Breath. It has an equally potent body hit that causes deep relaxation. The THC could be as high as 28%. RSO from Motor Breath is ideal for addressing insomnia, loss of appetite, nausea, and fatigue.
8. Kosher Kush
Kosher Kush is among the first strains to be “endorsed by a Rabbi,” and hence many consider this to be an enlightening strain. Kosher Kush won the High Times cannabis cup as best indica in 2010, 2012 and 2015 medical cups. The awards were well deserved as this strain is useful in addressing a number of medical issues such as insomnia, anxiety, stress, pain, and inflammation. It has 25%-29% THC, expect this to resent a few problems such as dry eyes and mouth. RSO from Kosher Kush could help patients suffering from anxiety disorders, mood disorders, and depression.
9. Blue Cheese
Blue Cheese is a strong indica strain with 80% indica and 20% Sativa. It is a cross between UK Cheese and Blueberry and it has a lot of cheese-like characteristics such as smell and taste. Being a highly resinous strain, the Blue Cheese buds will have a milky white coating of trichomes when the buds are mature. Being a strong indica, this strain makes a suitable ingredient for RSO. The THC amount will usually be upwards of 20% but not exceeding 25%. As compared to the other mentioned high potency strains, this one offers a soft landing spot for new users.
Can RSO Cure Cancer?
Rick Simpson tried cannabis oil after reading results from a 1975 animal study where cannabinoids had shown anti-cancer effects. Since then, a lot of research has been done to investigate the use of cannabis oil in treating cancer. The key areas looked at include:
- Use of cannabinoids to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting
- Use of cannabinoids to treat cancer-related cachexia
- Use of cannabinoids to potentiate radiation therapy
- Use of cannabinoids to slow down and stop the growth of cancerous cells
Most of the evidence currently available is either anecdotal reports or from animal studies. There’s significant evidence in the area of using cannabinoids to treat chemotherapy-induced nausea and vomiting and indeed patients are being put on this treatment already.
If you’re interested in using cannabis for cancer or to treat the side effects of conventional treatments, talk to your doctor.
Leave a Reply