By Jeff Eckenrode

Image credit: Mark Owen Wilkinson Hughes

Quick Answer: Start with a rice-sized amount (about 0.1 mL) of RSO and increase slowly over time. Beginners should begin with ¼ to ½ a grain of rice and wait 1–2 hours before adjusting. Effects vary by individual and goal—RSO is potent, so always “start low and go slow.” For medical use, consult a healthcare provider.

Thick, sticky, and highly concentrated

RSO, short for Rick Simpson Oil, isn’t your average cannabis product. It's a full-spectrum cannabis oil that packs a powerful punch. So if you’re new to RSO or just curious about how much to take, you’re not alone.

The truth is, dosing RSO can be a little intimidating at first. But with a few guidelines and a little patience, you can find the dose that works best for your body and your goals.

Start Low, Go Slow

Let’s start with the golden rule of RSO: start low and go slow.

RSO is much more potent than a typical edible or vape cart. A standard grain-of-rice-sized dose (about 0.1 mL or 25–40mg THC depending on the batch) is often enough to deliver noticeable effects—especially for new users or people with lower tolerance.

Here’s a basic breakdown to keep things simple:

Beginner Dose: ¼ grain of rice

Intermediate Dose: ½ grain of rice

Standard Dose: 1 full grain of rice

That’s it. Really. It might not look like much, but trust us—RSO is strong stuff. Take that tiny dot of oil, swallow it on a cracker or piece of fruit, and give it a solid 1 to 2 hours before deciding if you need more.

What Are You Using RSO For?

How much RSO you take depends on what you're trying to achieve. People turn to RSO for different reasons—some for relaxation or sleep, others for more intensive therapeutic routines.

Here’s a general idea of how people tend to dose:

For Mild Relief or Sleep: Start with a rice-sized amount in the evening.

For Chronic Conditions or Daily Use: Some users work up to 1 gram per day over time, usually split into multiple doses (morning, mid-day, evening).

For Intensive Routines: Rick Simpson originally recommended a 60-gram protocol over 90 days, but that level of use should only be done under medical supervision.

If you're using RSO for health-related reasons, it's always best to talk with a healthcare provider familiar with cannabis.

Image credit: Image credit: RUNGROJ YONGRIT

How to Use RSO

RSO is thick, sticky, and a little bitter—which is why most people don’t eat it straight from the syringe. Instead, try:

Squeezing it onto a small piece of fruit, cracker, or bread

Rolling it into an empty capsule (for less taste)

Rubbing it directly on your gums or under your tongue (for faster absorption)

Topical use is also an option if you’re targeting localized pain, but this won’t deliver the same effects as ingesting it.

Can You Take Too Much RSO?

Yes. Like any high-THC product, it’s possible to overdo it with RSO. Taking too much can lead to strong psychoactive effects—think couch lock, dizziness, anxiety, or even nausea. The good news? It’s not dangerous or toxic. The bad news? You might be in for a long, uncomfortable ride.

So again: start low, go slow.