Rick Simpson: RSO oil, skin cancer and healing – the man behind the most famous cannabis extract
Rick Simpson is not a doctor, not a pharmacologist – and yet almost everyone in the cannabis world knows him today. The Canadian became world-famous for his self-developed cannabis medicine, known as RSO (Rick Simpson Oil). He claimed to have cured his own skin cancer with it – and made it his life’s work to share this knowledge with others free of charge. Today you can find out who Rick Simpson is, how RSO works and why his name still means hope to many today. Back to all cannabis legends.
Rick Simpson: The path from patient to activist
Rick Simpson comes from Nova Scotia, Canada, and worked as an engineer in a hospital. After an accident at work in 1997, he suffered severe head injuries and developed chronic pain and neurological symptoms. No medication helped – until he began to treat himself with cannabis extracts.
In 2003, he was diagnosed with skin cancer (basal cell carcinoma). Inspired by studies on THC and tumors, he applied a home-made cannabis extract directly to the skin areas – and reported complete regression within a few weeks. This experience changed his life.
- Born in Canada, healthcare technician
- Chronic complaints after an accident at work
- Healing experience with homemade cannabis oil
Rick who? 5 things you should know
- He developed the legendary “Rick Simpson Oil” (RSO)
- He gave the oil away free of charge to hundreds of patients
- He now lives in seclusion in Europe
- Its oil was the starting point for many modern cannabis extracts
- It is a symbol for patient rights & self-help
What is Rick Simpson Oil (RSO)?
RSO is a THC-rich, highly concentrated cannabis oil that is usually produced from indica-dominant strains. Unlike CBD oils, it has a high psychoactive content – up to 90% THC depending on the plant. The oil is produced by extraction with alcohol, boiled down and applied orally or topically.
Simpson’s recipe is simple but effective – and publicly available on his website Phoenix Tears. His message: anyone should be able to produce the oil themselves without having to pay for it.
- Highly concentrated full spectrum THC oil
- Application: orally or on the skin
- No brand loyalty, free production possible
Controversies: medicine or myth?
Although many people report successes with RSO, the scientific data is sparse. While animal studies indicate that THC has a tumor-inhibiting effect, there is a lack of large-scale human studies. Critics accuse Simpson of spreading promises of a cure without evidence.
He himself never claims to have found a miracle cure – instead, he encourages patients to take responsibility for themselves and to question established structures. His focus: free information, not commercial interests.
- No approved therapy in conventional medicine
- Simpson does not sell oil – only knowledge
- RSO inspires modern full-spectrum preparations
The influence: thousands of testimonials worldwide
Over the years, countless forums, testimonials, Facebook groups and YouTube videos have been created around RSO. Many patients with cancer, multiple sclerosis, chronic pain or PTSD report a significant improvement in their symptoms.
Rick Simpson’s approach not only inspired people, but also companies: Today, there are medical cannabis extracts available on prescription that are based on similar principles – such as full-spectrum oils with defined THC:CBD ratios.
- Worldwide community of patients & self-users
- RSO as an impulse for modern extract medicine
- Much quoted, also in the legalization movement
RSO in Germany: Legal or not?
In Germany, RSO is subject to the Narcotics Act (BtMG) as it contains high THC levels. Legal production is not permitted for private individuals. However, full-spectrum medical extracts are available on prescription – these are dispensed in pharmacies and are subject to strict quality controls.
Rick Simpson’s influence is nevertheless noticeable: many patients are looking for alternatives to standard therapy – and come across his story.
- RSO itself is illegal in DE
- Full-spectrum extracts like dronabinol are legal
- RSO remains a symbol of personal responsibility
That was Rick Simpson: Any questions?
Rick Simpson is one of the most controversial and inspiring figures in the cannabis world. He stands for self-determination, free help and the power of the plant. His method is not scientifically validated – but his courage to publicly stand up for cannabis as medicine has helped countless people to find hope.
Anyone who deals with cannabis extracts cannot avoid Rick Simpson. His name is not only associated with an oil – but with a movement.
- Rick Simpson fights for free cannabis medicine
- RSO is his legacy – known worldwide
- He stands for personal responsibility instead of the pharmaceutical lobby











