If you’re new to cannabis, you might find all the different varieties of cannabis extract confusing – they all contain slightly different cannabinoid and terpene blends, and often, there will be multiple names for the same extract.

So to help you discover your new favourite product, in this article, we’ll break down Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) and distillate – two of the most popular cannabis extracts.

We’ll discuss their extraction processes, effects, uses, benefits, and more. Let’s dive in.

What is RSO?

Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a cannabis extract that contains very high levels of THC alongside other compounds. It was first developed by (and is named for) Rick Simpson, a Canadian medical cannabis advocate who used the extract to treat his skin cancer, then later shared his story around the world.

Unlike some cannabis concentrates, RSO is a full-spectrum extract, meaning it retains all the cannabinoids, terpenes, and other compounds naturally found in cannabis, maximising the potential therapeutic effects you receive.

Due to its high THC concentration, RSO is known for its potent psychoactive effects and is primarily used for medicinal purposes, most notably cancer treatment and symptom relief.

What is Distillate?

Distillate is a highly refined cannabis extract that contains a single cannabinoid in near-isolate form. The two main types of distillate are tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) distillate and cannabidiol (CBD) distillate; these are the two most prevalent cannabinoids in the plant.

However, note that “distillate” is typically used to refer to THC distillate in conversations around extracts.

The distillation process removes all other compounds, including terpenes, flavonoids, lipids, and other cannabinoids.

What’s left behind is a clear, viscous oil that’s almost entirely pure THC, often reaching potencies above 90%.

Because of its purity and neutral flavour, distillate is commonly used in a wide range of cannabis products, including gummies, vape carts, and tinctures.

RSO vs. Distillate: Differences & Similarities

There are three primary points of difference between RSO and distillate: the extraction process used to create them, their potency and effects, and their uses and benefits. Here’s a look at how they compare:

Extraction process

RSO is made using a full-spectrum extraction process that typically involves soaking cannabis plant material in a solvent like ethanol or isopropyl alcohol. This draws out not just THC, but all of the natural compounds in the plant, including the cannabinoids, terpenes, chlorophyll, and lipids.

After the solvent is evaporated, you’re left with a thick, dark oil that contains the full spectrum of natural compounds in the cannabis plant.

Distillate, on the other hand, is the result of multiple rounds of purification. It’s first extracted using CO2 or hydrocarbon methods, then further refined through winterisation, decarboxylation, and distillation.

The final product is stripped of everything but the targeted cannabinoid (usually THC), creating a near-pure concentrate with no plant flavour or additional compounds.

Potency & effects

RSO delivers a powerful, multifaceted experience thanks to its full-spectrum composition. Its combination of THC, CBD, CBG, CBN, and terpenes creates what many call the entourage effect – heightened effects and therapeutic benefits.

While RSO will get you high, the presence of other cannabinoids tends to temper the harsher side of THC, resulting in a more balanced, physically relaxing experience.

Distillate, by contrast, offers a more isolated effect that often entails a stronger psychoactive effect. It contains similarly high levels of THC to RSO, but without the secondary cannabinoids.

Because there’s nothing to soften THC’s impact, the high feels more euphoric and cerebral, but also more anxiety-inducing in some cases.

Uses & benefits

RSO is widely used for therapeutic purposes. Its whole-plant profile makes it one of the most popular medical cannabis products, with common uses including cancer, chronic discomfort, and sleep issues.

People prize distillate for its versatility. Because it’s flavourless and odourless, it’s often used in products like THC gummies, vapes, tinctures, and topicals.

Recreational users often prefer distillate for its high THC content, while manufacturers like it for its consistency and scalability. Though it doesn’t offer the full entourage effect, it offers the euphoric, relaxing effects of THC that many people enjoy.

Consumption methods

RSO and distillate can both be consumed through edibles or tinctures. Many people prefer RSO edibles and THC gummies because this format allows for consistent dosing. Tinctures allow for precise dosing measurement and are most commonly used therapeutically.

However, there are consumption methods that only apply to RSO or to distillate. For instance, the most common RSO product is an oral syringe. RSO is a thick, dark oil; syringes allow people to consume it orally, mix it into food, or apply it topically.

On the other hand, vaping is a common way to consume distillate, but this consumption method is never used with RSO. Due to its extraction process, RSO contains ethanol, which is safe to consume orally but not safe to inhale in the form of a vapor.

Conclusion: Which Extract is Better for You?

Choosing between RSO and distillate depends on your goals. If you’re primarily a medical or therapeutic cannabis user, RSO is the better choice due to its full-spectrum benefits and balanced effects.

Distillate, on the other hand, is a better choice if you’re a recreational user looking for high THC potency and flexible consumption. You can vape THC distillate, take it in a gummy, or dose it in a tincture.
Both cannabis extracts have their place; it all comes down to your needs and wellness goals!