How RSO and Cannabis Distillate Differ: Uses, Benefits & Risks
By Jeff Eckenrode
Image credit: Elsa Olofsson
Quick Answer: RSO cannabis and cannabis distillate are two potent cannabis extracts with very different uses, extraction methods, and effects. RSO is a full-spectrum oil known for its high THC content and medical applications, while distillate is a purified, flavorless concentrate often used for precise dosing in recreational and edible products. Understanding the difference between RSO and distillate helps consumers choose the right option for their needs.
Cannabis concentrates have become increasingly popular in Washington and across the U.S., but not all extracts are created equal.
RSO and distillate each offer unique benefits and risks.
Whether you are a medical user, a recreational consumer, or a dispensary shopper, knowing how these products differ is essential.
What Is RSO?
Rick Simpson Oil, commonly called RSO, is a full-spectrum cannabis extract named after its creator, Rick Simpson.
It is made using solvent-based extraction methods, typically with ethanol or other food-safe solvents, which preserve a broad range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and other plant compounds.
Key characteristics of RSO:
Full-spectrum: Contains THC, CBD, minor cannabinoids, and terpenes.
Potency: Extremely high THC content, often 60-90%.
Consistency: Thick, dark, sticky oil.
Primary Use: Medical applications, including pain relief, inflammation reduction, and in some cases, cancer-support therapies.
RSO is intended for oral ingestion or topical application rather than inhalation.
Its potency and full-spectrum profile make it popular among patients seeking targeted therapeutic benefits.
Image credit: Fulvio Ciccolo
What Is Distillate?
Distillate is a highly purified extract created through a process called distillation.
This process isolates cannabinoids like THC or CBD while removing most other compounds, including terpenes, fats, and waxes.
Key characteristics of cannabis distillate:
Purified: Often 90-99% pure THC or CBD.
Flavorless and odorless: Makes it versatile for edibles, vape cartridges, and tinctures.
Precise dosing: Ideal for users seeking controlled THC intake.
Primary Use: Recreational and medical consumption where exact potency is desired.
Distillate can be infused into edibles, beverages, and topicals or used in vape cartridges, offering flexibility for both casual and experienced consumers.
Image credit: Luke Stackpoole
Extraction Methods: How They Differ
RSO Extraction: Uses ethanol or similar solvents to dissolve cannabinoids and terpenes, followed by evaporation to remove the solvent. This method preserves the plant’s full spectrum of compounds, creating a potent, dark oil.
Distillate Extraction: Uses heat and vacuum pressure to isolate cannabinoids through fractional distillation. This results in a nearly pure THC or CBD product, stripped of other plant compounds and flavors.
The differences in extraction directly affect the product’s taste, potency, and intended use.
Image credit: RUNGROJ YONGRIT
Medical vs Recreational Use
RSO: Primarily used in medical contexts. Full-spectrum cannabinoids may produce stronger therapeutic effects due to the entourage effect. Patients may use small doses over time for chronic pain, inflammation, or other conditions.
Distillate: Often preferred by recreational users for its clean, flavorless profile and predictable potency. It is easier to measure doses for edibles or vape cartridges. Medical users may also prefer distillate for controlled dosing.
Benefits and Risks
RSO Benefits:
Full-spectrum cannabinoids may enhance therapeutic effects.
Potent and effective for medical purposes.
RSO Risks:
Extremely high THC levels can cause strong psychoactive effects.
Oral dosing requires careful measurement to avoid overconsumption.
Distillate Benefits:
Precise dosing and consistent potency.
Flavorless, versatile for many product types.
Distillate Risks:
Lacks terpenes, so it may not provide the full therapeutic benefits of a full-spectrum product.
Overconsumption of high-potency distillate can cause intense intoxication.
Image credit: Mfused
Choosing Between RSO and Distillate
When deciding between RSO and cannabis distillate, consider your goals:
Choose RSO cannabis if you are seeking medical benefits and a full-spectrum extract.
Choose cannabis distillate if you want precise dosing, versatility, and recreational use.
At Hashtag Redmond, we offer a wide variety of RSO and distillate options, so it is easier than ever to select the right product for your needs.
Where can I Find RSO and Distillate products?
Whether you’re shopping online or in Redmond, we’re here to help you find what you need, when you need it. That includes popular products like RSO and distillate!
Click on our online menu link below to see our current availability.
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