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RCO, RSO, FECO are all the same thing: Cannabis Oil

Cannabis Oil Types

RCO, RSO, and FECO are terms that refer to different types of cannabis oil, each with its own extraction methods and intended uses:

  • RCO (Real Cannabis Oil): A type of cannabis oil made using a specific extraction method popularized by Uncle Pete. It is often used for medicinal purposes and is known for its high THC content and being the most potent form of cannabis oil available.

  • RSO (Rick Simpson Oil): Essentially the same as RCO, this term is often used interchangeably. It emphasizes the origin of the oil related to Rick Simpson's advocacy for cannabis oil as a treatment for various ailments.

  • FECO (Full Extract Cannabis Oil): This oil is made using a different extraction process that aims to maximize yields. Many of these recipes include long soak times or even boil the cannabis in the solvent to maximize profit. Higher amounts of plant wax and chlorophyll are the result. Higher profits too! FECO oil is less potent as a direct result but can still be usable medicine.



Although all three are types of cannabis oil, the variations in extraction techniques and cannabinoid compositions can result in different effects and applications. Each type of

RCO: Real Cannabis Oil 
Made by Uncle Pete
Real Cannabis Oil

cannabis oil is derived from the cannabis plant, but the methods used to extract the oil, along with the specific cannabinoids and terpenes present, can lead to significantly different therapeutic outcomes and user experiences. For instance, some oils may be rich in THC, the psychoactive compound responsible for the "high," while others may be high in CBD, a non-psychoactive compound often sought for its potential therapeutic benefits, such as anti-inflammatory and anxiolytic effects. These differences in cannabinoid profiles can make one type of oil more suitable for certain medical conditions or personal preferences than another, highlighting the importance of understanding the specific characteristics of each oil.

Solvent choice, soak times, wash times, temperature of solvents, and other variables are what set apart these processes as well as dictate the quality of medicine produced. The extraction process can utilize various solvents, such as ethanol, butane, or CO2, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. For example, CO2 extraction is known for producing a clean, high-quality oil but requires sophisticated equipment and expertise, whereas ethanol extraction is more accessible and can effectively capture a broader spectrum of cannabinoids and terpenes. Additionally, the duration of the soak and wash times during extraction can influence the potency and flavor profile of the final product. Longer soak times may extract more compounds, but they can also lead to the inclusion of undesirable chlorophyll, which can affect taste and quality. Temperature is another critical factor; higher temperatures can increase the efficiency of extraction but may also degrade sensitive compounds, leading to a less desirable end product.

Furthermore, the final cannabinoid composition is not only a result of the extraction method but also depends on the strain of cannabis used. Different strains have unique profiles of cannabinoids and terpenes, which contribute to their distinct effects and applications. For instance, an oil derived from a strain high in myrcene might be more sedative, making it suitable for nighttime use, while an oil from a strain rich in limonene may provide uplifting effects, ideal for daytime use. This intricate interplay between extraction techniques, solvent properties, and plant genetics underscores the complexity of cannabis oil production and the necessity for careful consideration when selecting an oil for therapeutic or recreational purposes.


The fundamental method of extracting cannabis oil for medicinal purposes dates back to times well before anyone currently living. Our fundamental techniques and knowledge regarding this medicine haven't progressed as significantly as one might assume over the years. While we now have improved cannabis and more advanced tools, the core extraction process has stayed consistent, as have the numerous potential medical applications.





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