Rick Simpson Oil (RSO), an oil made from the flowers of the cannabis (marijuana) plant, is garnering attention online from people who claim it cures cancer. There is no hard evidence. However, some early research suggests that some chemicals in marijuana may have future potential as cancer treatments.
Cannabis oil is available in many different types and formulations. This includes cannabidiol (CBD) oil, which is often part of medical marijuana.
Unlike many other cannabis oils, Rick Simpson oil is high in tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive chemical in marijuana. THC is the chemical in marijuana that provides the “smell”.
According to online reports, Simpson is a Canadian engineer and cannabis activist. After a bad fall, he discovered that marijuana helped reduce dizziness and other symptoms. Later, when he developed basal cell skin cancer on his arm, Simpson turned to cannabis oil as a treatment. As reports go on, his skin cancer has cleared.
What is Rick Simpson Oil?
RSO is an oil made by washing cannabis buds with a solvent such as pure light naphtha, then boiling the solvent leaving the oil.
RSO is not a branded product. That is, “Rick Simpson Oil” is not for sale. On his website, Simpson explains how to make his namesake oil. However, he does not sell the petroleum version for profit.
Because RSO contains high levels of THC, it is illegal to buy it in many places. However, in states that have legalized marijuana, whether for personal or medical use, RSOs can be found at cannabis dispensaries.
Can RSO cure cancer?
Cannabis oil, which contains THC, may help control nausea and vomiting in people undergoing chemotherapy. There is also evidence that it can treat pain and improve appetite.
However, no studies have shown that RSO or other forms of cannabis oil can treat cancer. However, some early research on the use of THC to treat cancer has been encouraging.
Studies have shown that THC and other cannabis chemicals can stop tumors from growing, both in animals and in the laboratory. This laboratory study investigated cells associated with lung, skin, breast, prostate and other cancers. They found that cannabis can, in some cases, prevent cancer cells from spreading.