RSO vs. FECO: What’s the Difference in These Cannabis Oils?

Robust Team
Sep 10
3 min read

What Is RSO?

RSO stands for Rick Simpson Oil, named after Canadian medical marijuana activist Rick Simpson. He created this extract to treat his own skin cancer symptoms, and it’s since become one of the most popular full-spectrum cannabis oils on the market.

RSO is a very strong cannabis oil made from the entire plant. That means it keeps a lot of the helpful components from the cannabis flower — like THC, CBD, and other natural parts that may help the body feel better.

How RSO is Made

RSO is typically made using grain alcohol or naphtha as a solvent to extract the full range of cannabinoids, terpenes, flavonoids, and other plant compounds from cannabis flower. After extraction, the solvent is fully evaporated, leaving behind a thick, dark oil.

What Is FECO?

FECO stands for Full Extract Cannabis Oil — and here’s where it gets a little confusing: It’s also made from the whole plant, just like RSO. FECO and RSO are often used interchangeably, but they technically differ in how they’re made.

How FECO is Made

FECO is made using food-grade ethanol — a safer, cleaner solvent — and it’s often processed with a focus on preserving more plant compounds, including heat-sensitive terpenes.

Wait — So is RSO the Same as FECO?

Here’s the easy way to remember it:

All RSO is a type of FECO, because it’s made from the whole plant.
But not all FECO is RSO, because FECO can be made differently and doesn’t always follow Rick Simpson’s exact recipe.

While RSO is traditionally made using very specific steps and solvents outlined by Rick Simpson, FECO can be produced with variations in the process. For example, some FECO is made with food-grade ethanol at cooler temperatures to preserve more terpenes, while others may use longer soak times or different filtration methods to change the flavor, potency, or cannabinoid profile. These subtle differences mean that FECO can range in taste, texture, and effect — and not every FECO will match the concentrated, dark, and often more sedating profile of classic RSO.

Why Do People Use RSO or FECO?

These oils are super strong and full of plant power! People use them for all kinds of reasons, especially when they want something stronger than regular flower or edibles.

Here are some common reasons:

Their doctor has recommended whole plant, high-dose cannabis
Wanting longer-lasting, full-body effects
Seeking deep physical relaxation or mentally winding down at the end of the day
Sleep support

How Do You Use RSO or FECO?

These oils can be used in lots of different ways! Here are some examples:

1. Eat It Straight Up

Place a tiny drop (about the size of a grain of rice) on your finger or a cracker and eat it
It can taste earthy or bitter — but it works fast!

2. Mix It Into Food

You can add it to yogurt, applesauce, or peanut butter
Or stir it into a warm drink like tea (as long as it’s not boiling hot)

3. Cook With It

Add a little to homemade brownies, sauces, or gummies
Just remember: a little goes a long way — it’s very strong!

4. Use It On Your Skin

Some people rub it directly onto their skin for pain or skin issues like rashes or scars
You can also mix it into lotion or coconut oil

5. Capsules or Suppositories

Some patients use it in pill form
Others use it as a suppository (ask a doctor if that’s right for you)

Start Low, Go Slow!

RSO and FECO are very strong. A tiny amount (like the size of a grain of rice) is enough for most people.

If you’re new to it, try a little bit and wait a few hours before taking more. Always check with a doctor if you’re using it for medical reasons.

DISCLAIMER: The contents of this post have not been evaluated by the FDA nor approved by any other government or official body and are not intended to diagnose, cure or prevent any disease or disorder of any kind. This information is meant for educational purposes ONLY. Medical decisions should not be made based on advertising. Consult a physician on the benefits & risks of specific medical products.