Cannabis concentrates are derived from the process of extracting THC from the plant and making it more potent. Two of these concentrates are distillate and Rick Simpson Oil, also referred to by its acronym RSO. Though they are both concentrates, there are many differences that we will explore to help you have a better understanding of each as well as situations where you may prefer one over the other.
What is RSO?
Rick Simpson Oil, or RSO, is named after—you guessed it—Rick Simpson, the man who brought it into the spotlight. It's a full-spectrum extract, which means it pulls everything from the cannabis plant: cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and even chlorophyll. Nothing gets left behind in this process.
RSO is especially well-known for its high THC content, which makes it popular among those seeking relief from serious conditions. The extraction process is simple: cannabis is soaked in a solvent like ethanol, which pulls out all those good compounds, resulting in a thick, almost syrupy oil. Now, full transparency—RSO has a strong taste and a thicker consistency than most extracts, but that's the price of retaining all those natural compounds.
Distillate
Distillate takes a very different approach. If RSO is your all-in-one, distillate is the minimalist version of cannabis extracts. It's stripped down to the bare essentials—primarily THC or CBD. During distillation, cannabinoids are separated from everything else: terpenes, fats, waxes, and other plant materials. The result? A super clean, odorless, and flavorless oil.
If you're someone who prefers a refined, controlled cannabis experience, distillate may more likely be your style. Distillates are incredibly versatile—they can be used in vape cartridges, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. Plus, they allow for precise control over the cannabinoid content, meaning you know exactly what you're getting in terms of THC or CBD levels.
RSO vs Distillate
When you're trying to choose between RSO and distillate, it comes down to what you're looking for in a cannabis experience. Are you after a holistic, all-encompassing treatment with everything the plant offers? Then RSO might be right for you. It's full-spectrum, meaning you get the complete range of cannabinoids, terpenes, and flavonoids working together in harmony, creating a powerful therapeutic effect.
But if you want something cleaner, more controlled, and adaptable, distillate is where it's at. It's versatile, potent, and easy to integrate into almost any cannabis product. The process strips away the plant materials and leaves you with a highly concentrated product that is free from impurities and has customizable THC or CBD levels.
Comparing Profiles
RSO is known for its high THC content, and it doesn't shy away from including other cannabinoids, too. Because it's full-spectrum, you're also getting the benefits of terpenes and other compounds in the mix, which may enhance its potential therapeutic effects.
Distillate, by contrast, is often praised for its purity. Its cannabinoid content is much more controlled because everything non-essential is removed during the distillation process. Whether you want high THC, high CBD, or a balance of the two, distillate offers precision in a way that RSO can't. You know exactly what you're getting in every dose, making it ideal for people who want a predictable experience every time.
Cost Considerations
Ah, the age-old question: which one's going to be kinder to your wallet? RSO tends to be on the pricier side because it uses the whole plant, which means more raw material is needed to make it. And since it's often sought out for serious medical conditions, you might notice the price tag creeping up. Distillate? A bit easier on the budget. It's mass-produced, refined, and typically costs less per milligram of THC or CBD. If you're looking for something you can use daily without burning through your budget, distillate is a great option.
Taste: Bold vs Subtle
Let's talk about taste for a second. If you're someone who's sensitive to flavors, RSO might not be your favorite. It has a very strong, earthy taste—sometimes even a bit harsh—because of its full-spectrum nature. This is where the "everything stays" approach can be a bit of a double-edged sword. Some love the authenticity, while others find it overpowering.
Distillate, on the other hand, is basically the polar opposite in the taste department. Because all the terpenes and other compounds are removed, it's nearly flavorless and odorless. This makes it perfect for people who want the effects of THC or CBD but without the pungent cannabis taste. If you're making edibles, this is especially handy—nobody wants their brownies tasting like a cannabis field, right?
How would you prefer to consume?
However, with regard to consumption methods, both are strong in their own ways. You will most commonly take RSO orally or apply it topically. Most of the time, you can simply take it orally, mix it into food, or even use it in a capsule. Topical use also favors this particular application and is great for localized applications.
In any case, it's the most versatile of them all: You can vape, eat, drop it under your tongue, or even rub it on your skin. Since it's odorless and flavorless, you can seamlessly fit it into any routine without having to deal with a strong cannabis taste. Plus, being highly concentrated means a little goes a long way, which is perfect for those who like variety in a potent way.
So, Which One Should You Choose?
At the end of the day, the "RSO vs distillate" debate comes down to your personal preferences and needs. Both are powerful cannabis extracts, but they cater to different users. RSO gives you the full-spectrum, raw experience, while distillate offers a refined, customizable option. Neither is "better" than the other—they just serve different purposes.