Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a full-spectrum cannabis extract often used for pain, stress, and other therapeutic purposes. Since it was first developed in 2001, it’s been widely used by people looking for a more concentrated form of cannabis.
Because RSO is highly potent, dosing it correctly matters. There are no standardized guidelines, and research is still evolving, which can make figuring out how much to take feel confusing.
However, a good rule of thumb is to start with a very small amount of RSO – about a rice-sized amount per day (around 1 mL) of RSO, split into smaller doses and gradually increased. New users should start with ¼ to ½ a grain of rice and wait 1-2 hours before increasing the dose.
Since it can take time to feel the effects, it’s best to wait before taking more. RSO is a very strong extract so always start with the lowest amount and increase the dose carefully.
To help simplify things, we’ve created an in-depth RSO dosage guide, calculator, and chart based on our experience helping a wide range of users understand and manage their dosing.

How Much RSO Should You Take?
There’s no standardized RSO dosage – it depends on your tolerance, body chemistry, and use. Most people start with a very small amount and increase gradually.
That said, generally speaking, you should start by taking a drop of pure RSO extract about half the size of a small grain of rice three times a day.
You can then gradually increase your daily dosage based on how you feel.
Because RSO is typically ingested, effects can take 1–2 hours to fully set in, so it’s important to wait before taking more rather than increasing your dose too quickly.
Cancer patients should start with this dose and adjust the doses they take according to our RSO protocol.
RSO dosage is commonly measured in size increments (e.g. a rice grain) rather than milligrams because it’s easier to eyeball a dosage of RSO than it is to measure it precisely, given its thick, sticky consistency.
However, we’ve provided milligram-based estimates for this dosing guidelines for different types of products (based on the fact that 1 rice grain sized drop of RSO is about 30mg) to make it easier to understand.
RSO Dosage Calculator
- Enter your body weight in lbs
- Select your RSO dosage strength based on your condition or use
- Click the calculate button to determine your recommended RSO dosage
RSO Dosage Chart

RSO Dosage Factors
RSO dosage isn’t the same for everyone. Your ideal dosage will depend on a variety of factors, including your body weight, tolerance to cannabis compounds, how you’re consuming the RSO, and more.
To calculate the optimal dose, you need to consider every factor carefully so you get the most benefit. Here’s a bit about each:
Body Weight
The medium dosage formula for RSO is (0.1) x (your body weight in lbs) = your daily dose of RSO in mg.
Based on how much you weigh, you might need to slightly increase or decrease your starting RSO dosage to find the amount that’s right for your body. Below are general benchmarks for medium RSO dosage by weight.
- For individuals 100 to 140 pounds, the average dose is 10-14mg
- For those who are 140 to 180 pounds, the average dose is 14-18mg
- If you’re between 180 and 220 pounds, the average dose is 18-22mg
- For people between 220 and 240 pounds, the average dose is 22-24mg
Alongside cannabis tolerance, weight is the biggest variable for RSO dosage, and dosage of medication in general.
Cannabis Tolerance
Because RSO is highly concentrated in THC, your starting dose should reflect your cannabis experience.
You should start with a very low dose (less than the size of a rice grain, roughly 5-10 mg), while more experienced people may tolerate slightly higher doses, (10-20+ mg).
People with a high tolerance to THC should still begin with a rice grain-sized dose, which still delivers around 30mg of THC.
Though some users with a higher tolerance might want to use a higher dose, RSO has a stronger hit than most regular cannabis products due to the extremely high THC content.
Users with a very high THC tolerance may need to dose 0.1-0.5 ml of RSO to feel anything. Even if you’ve got a high tolerance, always increase the dose gradually to prevent overdosing.
You can also take the oil with something high fat like peanut butter or even mashed avocado to increase the absorption.
Use Case
The amount of RSO you’ll need to take will depend on why you’re taking it; you’ll need to employ a different protocol when taking RSO for cancer treatment than when taking it for ongoing physical discomfort management, for example.
People taking RSO for cancer typically consume almost 1 gram per day, which is a very high dose. However, that depends greatly on body weight and cannabis tolerance.
For anxiety, it’s recommended to start low, 1-2 mg per day, and stay consistent with dosing it.
The same principle applies when using RSO for pain. Start low, 2-4 mg per day, and gradually increase the dose to a range where it’s most effective for you.
Product Type
RSO dosage will vary by product, for example pure RSO must be taken in very small amounts while RSO edible gummies and tinctures are typically less concentrated. Gummies and tinctures will have set guidelines for the exact amount to take based on your need but pure RSO dosage isn’t as exact.
For dosing pure RSO, the rice grain rule is typically the best way to measure your doses. Because tinctures and gummies are typically less concentrated than syringes or capsules, always check the label and dose based on milligrams (mg).
Authentic RSO extract will be mostly THC with trace amounts of other cannabinoids. Pure RSO oil will have between 60-90% THC.
Be mindful when looking for pure RSO because there are several products that combine RSO with other cannabinoids like CBD and CBG.
Consumption Method
How you take RSO affects how quickly it works and how strong it feels. Sublingual use (application under the tongue) acts faster, while the effects from ingesting take longer to initially appear they normally last longer.
- Sublingual use: Onset typically begins in 15-45 minutes
- Ingestion: Onset normally begins in 1-2 hours
Medication
RSO can affect how your body processes certain medications, especially those handled by liver enzymes like CYP450. If you’re taking prescriptions, it’s best to check with a healthcare provider before starting or adjusting your dosage.
RSO Dosage by Product
While the rice grain RSO dosage guideline is helpful if you’re taking pure RSO extract from an oral syringe, there are many other types of RSO products. Since each has a unique delivery method and concentration, you’ll need to dose and use each differently. Here’s what you need to know:
RSO Syringe Dosage
Onset Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Effect Duration: 6-8 hours
RSO syringes contain full-spectrum RSO in its purest, most concentrated form. Also called RSO applicators or simply referred to as RSO oil, oral syringes are versatile, allowing for oral ingestion, infusion into food, sublingual absorption, or topical application.
Because RSO syringes contain pure RSO extract, you’ll only need to take a small amount to see significant benefits and effects.
Here’s a weight-based RSO syringe dosage chart:
| Weight Range | Medium RSO Dose | RSO Oral Syringe Amount |
| 100-140lbs | 10-14mg | ⅓ of rice grain-sized drop |
| 140-180lbs | 14-18mg | ½ of rice grain-sized drop |
| 180-220lbs | 18-22mg | ⅔ of rice grain-sized drop |
| 220lbs+ | 22.5mg | ¾ of rice grain-sized drop |
RSO Tincture Dosage
Onset Time: 15-20 minutes
Effect Duration: 4-6 hours
RSO tinctures are a liquid form of Rick Simpson Oil mixed with a carrier oil. Because tinctures are thinner than pure RSO oil and come with a metered dropper, they’re easier to dose precisely.
RSO tinctures can be taken sublingually (under the tongue) or mixed into food or beverages for a more gradual onset.
Because tinctures are less concentrated than pure RSO, you’ll need to check how many milligrams (mg) of RSO are in each milliliter (ml) and measure your dose accordingly.
Here’s a weight-based dosage chart based on a 30ml (1 oz) tincture containing 1000mg of RSO:
| Weight Range | Low RSO Dose | Medium RSO Dose | High RSO Dose |
| 100-140lbs | 5-7mg (0.15-0.21mL) | 10-14mg (0.30-0.42mL) | 20-28mg (0.60-0.84mL) |
| 140-180lbs | 7-9mg (0.21-0.27mL) | 14-18mg+ (0.42-0.54mL+) | 28-36mg (0.84-1.08mL) |
| 180-220lbs | 9-11mg (0.27-0.33mL) | 18-22mg+ (0.54-0.66mL+) | 36-44mg (1.08-1.32mL) |
| 220lbs+ | 11-12mg (0.33-0.36mL) | 22mg+ (0.66mL+) | 44-48mg (1.32-1.44mL) |
RSO Gummies Dosage
Onset Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Effect Duration: 6-8 hours
RSO gummies are gummy candies infused with Rick Simpson Oil. They provide a flavorful and convenient way to consume this beneficial extract. Each gummy contains a pre-measured dose, allowing for controlled intake. RSO gummies take longer to kick in due to digestion but offer long-lasting effects.
Because RSO gummies can feel strong and take time to take effect, it’s best to start with a smaller portion and increase gradually. Wait at least 1-2 hours before taking more to avoid overconsumption and monitor how your body reacts.
Since RSO gummies contain fixed doses of RSO, you’ll need to determine how many gummies (or what fraction of a gummy) you need to take in order to get your target dose.
Here’s a weight-based dosage chart based on 50mg RSO gummies:
| Weight Range | Medium RSO Dose | RSO Gummies Amount |
| 100-140lbs | 10-14mg | ¼ of a gummy |
| 140-180lbs | 14-18mg | ⅓ of a gummy |
| 180-220lbs | 18-22mg | ⅖ of a gummy |
| 220lbs+ | 22mg+ | ½ of a gummy |
RSO Capsules Dosage
Onset Time: 45 minutes to 1 hour
Effect Duration: 6-8 hours
RSO capsules divide RSO into pre-measured doses, offering a quick, tasteless way to consume Rick Simpson Oil. They’re taken like regular supplements and produce slow, long-lasting effects as you digest them.
Because capsules contain fixed, often higher doses and can’t be easily split, they’re less flexible for beginners. They’re typically better suited for those who have already increased their dosage over time and need a more consistent, higher-dose option.
Here’s an RSO capsule dosage chart based on where you are in the RSO protocol (based on 500 mg capsules):
| Treatment Week | RSO Dose | RSO Capsules Amount |
| 5 | 500mg | 1 capsule |
| 6-12 | 1000mg | 2 capsules |
RSO Suppositories Dosage
Onset Time: 30-60 minutes (vaginal administration) or 15-30 minutes (rectal administration)
Effect Duration: 6-8 hours
RSO suppositories are designed for rectal or vaginal use, allowing for rapid absorption of cannabinoids through tissues in the colon.
This method bypasses digestion, delivering high bioavailability and targeted effects. RSO suppositories are commonly used for pain relief, cancer symptom management, and gastrointestinal conditions.
Like RSO capsules, RSO suppositories contain pre-measured amounts of RSO and are rigid in terms of dosing flexibility (for obvious reasons).
Here’s an RSO suppository dosage chart that provides recommendations on what strength of RSO suppository to use, depending on which week of the RSO protocol you’re on:
| Treatment Week | RSO Dose | RSO Suppository Strength |
| 5 | 500mg | 500mg |
| 6-12 | 1000mg | 1000mg (1g) |
How Much RSO is Too Much?
Given that our recommended starting dose of RSO is 30mg – but cancer patients end their treatment protocol by taking 1000mg of RSO per day – there is no specific amount of RSO that could be considered “too much.” It all depends on your body weight, tolerance, and use.
However, generally, doses in excess of 30-40mg RSO per day are too much if you’ve never taken RSO or THC before.
While RSO is a full-spectrum cannabis extract that’s non-toxic and very beneficial for a wide range of therapeutic applications, it does contain large amounts of THC and is psychoactive, so taking too much can result in adverse effects.
Side effects of RSO may include:
- Anxiety
- Dry Mouth
- Increased Appetite
- Memory Loss
- Red Eyes
- Slowed Reaction Times
- Rapid Heart Rate
Always avoid driving or operating machinery until you understand how RSO affects you.
What to Do If You Take Too Much RSO
While taking too much RSO is unpleasant, it’s not fatal. Here are some tips to help you get through it:
- Stay Calm: If you take too much RSO, your immediate reaction might be to panic. While this may seem like a tall order, try to take a deep breath and stay calm.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water to ensure your system is able to process the RSO and THC as efficiently as possible.
- Rest: One of the best ways to deal with the mental effects of taking too much RSO, while giving your body a chance to catch up, is simply to rest. Find a quiet, comfortable place to lie down and rest.
- Eat Something: While eating can sometimes increase the potency of cannabis, it’s important you eat as normal, even if you’re currently experiencing the effects of taking too much RSO. This will help your body regulate itself and continue to process the RSO through.
- Consult a Professional: If, after trying the above steps, you still feel uncomfortable hours after taking the RSO or the symptoms have become severe, it’s crucial to seek medical care through an emergency room visit.
Tips for Successful RSO Dosage
Dosage for RSO products differs from person to person. It depends on several factors that should all be taken seriously and carefully considered. Taking the right amount, at the right time is the difference between seeing positive benefits and accidentally taking too much. You always want to keep the following in mind when taking RSO:
- Start low / slow
- Make sure you’re taking a good product
- Give it time to work
- Use protocol for the correct RSO dosage for cancer
Conclusion: How Much RSO is Right For You?
Finding your ideal RSO dosage boils down to starting low, increasing slowly, and paying close attention to how your body responds.
While factors like weight, tolerance, product type, and intended use all play a role, there really is no one-size-fits-all dose, especially since RSO is so potent.
Using general guidelines like the rice grain method and milligram estimates can help you get started, but the safest and most effective approach is gradual adjustment over time.
When in doubt, always err on the side of caution, give each dose time to take effect, and consult a healthcare professional if you’re unsure. This is especially true if you’re using higher doses or combining RSO with other treatments.
More RSO Brand Reviews
To see how these dosing guidelines apply to specific syringes and pre-portioned edibles on the market, explore our detailed brand reviews:
RSO Dosage: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some questions our customers frequently ask us about how much RSO to take:
How Strong Is One Gram Of RSO?
One gram of Rick Simpson Oil typically contains 600 to 900 mg of THC. That makes it extremely potent and equivalent to dozens of standard edible doses. Even a tiny amount can produce strong effects.
How Long Will RSO Take To Kick In?
RSO usually takes 30 to 60 minutes to kick in when taken sublingually. If swallowed, it can take 1 to 2 hours depending on digestion. Always wait before taking more.
Can RSO Get You Stoned?
Yes, RSO can definitely get you stoned and often more intensely than other cannabis products. Its high THC content leads to strong psychoactive effects. Even small doses can hit hard.
How Much RSO Is Needed To Get High?
Most people feel high from a grain-of-rice-sized dose, around 2.5 to 5 mg of THC. Sensitivity varies, so some may feel effects from even less. It is easy to overdo it if you increase too quickly.
What Does RSO Feel Like?
RSO typically produces a heavy body high with deep relaxation and euphoria. Many people also experience sedation or sleepiness. The effects tend to feel stronger and more physical than smoking.
Does RSO Hit Harder Than Edibles?
RSO can feel stronger than typical edibles because it is highly concentrated and full spectrum. It delivers a large amount of THC in a small dose. Higher doses especially can feel more intense and longer lasting.
Why Is RSO So Powerful?
RSO is powerful because it contains very high levels of THC along with other cannabinoids and compounds. It is minimally processed compared to many edibles. This combination leads to strong and long-lasting effects.
How Long Does RSO Last?
RSO effects usually last 6 to 8 hours for most users. Higher doses can extend the experience to 10 hours or more. Duration depends on dose, tolerance, and metabolism.
How Much RSO Should I Take Recreationally?
A typical recreational dose is around 5 to 10 mg of THC. Start low and increase slowly to find your comfort level. This helps avoid overwhelming effects.
How Much RSO Should I Take First Time?
First-time users should start with a grain-of-rice-sized dose, about 2.5 mg of THC. Wait at least 2 hours before considering another dose. This approach helps you safely gauge your tolerance.
How Much RSO Should I Take for High Tolerance?
If you have a high THC tolerance, you can typically start around 10–20 mg and gradually increase into the 20–50+ mg range as needed. Even experienced users should build up slowly, since RSO can feel stronger than other forms of cannabis.
Is 100mg of RSO a Lot?
Yes. 100 mg is a very high dose. It’s usually only suitable for people with a strong tolerance or specific high-dose protocols, and can cause intense, long-lasting effects.








