Comprehensive Guide to Adding RSO to Drinks

Simplest and Most Revered Methods for Infusing RSO into Beverages

Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) is a potent cannabis extract known for its high concentration of cannabinoids, particularly THC and CBD. Integrating RSO into beverages requires effective emulsification to ensure uniform distribution and stability. The following methods are widely regarded for their simplicity and effectiveness in enhancing drinks with full-spectrum THC:

1. Emulsification with Lecithin or MCT Oil

Emulsification is the process of combining RSO with a liquid, preventing separation and ensuring consistent dosing in each sip.

• Ingredients: RSO, lecithin or medium-chain triglyceride (MCT) oil.
• Procedure:
  1. Measure the desired amount of RSO.
  2. Add lecithin or MCT oil as an emulsifier.
  3. Whisk the mixture vigorously or use an immersion blender until fully integrated.
  4. Incorporate the emulsified RSO into your chosen beverage.
• Tips:
  • Use warm liquids to facilitate better dissolution of RSO.
  • Add fats first to improve binding with RSO.
  • For best results, use a high-speed blender or immersion blender.

2. RSO-Infused Simple Syrup

Creating a simple syrup infused with RSO allows for versatile use in a variety of beverages, from cocktails to teas.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 gram RSO
  • 1/8 teaspoon liquid sunflower lecithin
• Instructions:
  1. Heat equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan until the sugar dissolves completely.
  2. Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool slightly.
  3. Add RSO and lecithin, stirring continuously until fully emulsified.
  4. Cool the syrup and store it in an airtight container.
  5. Use as a sweetener in drinks like the Phoenix Fizz or in coffee and tea.
• Storage: Keep in a cool, dark place to maintain potency and prevent degradation.

3. Direct Addition to High-Fat Beverages

High-fat content beverages naturally emulsify better with RSO, ensuring a more stable infusion.

• Suitable Beverages:
  • Milk
  • Cream
  • Coconut milk
  • Hot chocolate
• Procedure:
  1. Warm the high-fat beverage gently; avoid boiling to preserve cannabinoid integrity.
  2. Add the desired amount of RSO directly into the warm beverage.
  3. Stir thoroughly until the RSO is fully dissolved and evenly distributed.
  4. For enhanced emulsification, add a small amount of lecithin or MCT oil and mix vigorously.
• Tips:
  • Use warm liquids to aid in the dissolution of RSO.
  • Consider using a blender for a smoother consistency.

Popular Drink Recipes Using Oil-Based RSO

1. Phoenix Fizz

• Ingredients:
  • 1 oz RSO-infused simple syrup
  • Cold sparkling water
  • Ice cubes
  • Lemon slice for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. Fill a glass with ice cubes.
  2. Pour in 1 ounce of RSO-infused simple syrup.
  3. Top with sparkling water.
  4. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Garnish with a lemon slice and serve immediately.

2. RSO-Infused Hot Toddy

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup hot water
  • 1 tea bag (black tea, herbal tea, etc.)
  • 1-2 teaspoons honey
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 0.25 to 0.5 grams RSO
  • Cinnamon stick for garnish (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Steep the tea bag in hot water for 3-5 minutes.
  2. Remove the tea bag and stir in honey and lemon juice.
  3. Add the RSO to the tea mixture and stir thoroughly until dissolved.
  4. Garnish with a cinnamon stick if desired and serve hot.
• Tips:
  • Adjust the amount of RSO based on desired potency.
  • Use high-quality honey for better flavor integration.

3. Canna-Lemonade

• Ingredients:
  • 1 cup water
  • 1 cup fresh lemon juice
  • 1 cup agave syrup or simple syrup
  • 0.5 to 1 gram RSO
  • Mint leaves for garnish (optional)
  • Ice cubes
• Instructions:
  1. In a small saucepan, dissolve RSO in a small amount of hot water.
  2. In a pitcher, combine lemon juice and agave syrup.
  3. Add the RSO mixture to the pitcher and stir until well mixed.
  4. Fill glasses with ice cubes and pour the canna-lemonade over the ice.
  5. Garnish with mint leaves if desired and serve chilled.
• Tips:
  • Ensure thorough mixing to prevent separation.
  • Adjust sweetness by varying the amount of agave syrup.

4. RSO-Infused Smoothie

• Ingredients:
  • 1 banana
  • 1 cup spinach or kale
  • 1 cup almond milk or preferred milk
  • 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup
  • 0.5 to 1 gram RSO
  • Ice cubes
  • Optional: chia seeds or protein powder
• Instructions:
  1. Add banana, spinach, almond milk, honey, and ice cubes to a blender.
  2. Blend until smooth.
  3. Add RSO and any optional ingredients.
  4. Blend again until the RSO is fully incorporated.
  5. Pour into a glass and enjoy immediately.
• Tips:
  • Use ripe bananas for natural sweetness.
  • Add ice to create a thicker, colder smoothie.
  • Consider pre-mixing RSO with lecithin for better emulsification.

5. Canna-Cocktail

• Ingredients:
  • 2 oz your choice of spirit (vodka, gin, rum)
  • 1 oz fresh citrus juice (lime, lemon, or orange)
  • 1 oz simple syrup (1:1 ratio of water and sugar)
  • 0.5 to 1 gram RSO
  • Ice cubes
  • Optional: citrus slice or herbs for garnish
• Instructions:
  1. In a cocktail shaker, combine the spirit, citrus juice, and simple syrup.
  2. In a separate container, dissolve RSO in a small amount of warm water.
  3. Add the RSO mixture to the shaker.
  4. Add ice cubes and shake vigorously until well chilled.
  5. Strain into a glass filled with fresh ice.
  6. Garnish with a citrus slice or herbs as desired.
• Tips:
  • Use high-proof spirits to aid in emulsification.
  • Shake thoroughly to ensure even distribution of RSO.

Techniques for Effective RSO Integration

1. Utilizing Emulsifiers for Stability

Emulsifiers such as lecithin or MCT oil are essential for maintaining a stable mixture of RSO in beverages. They prevent the oil from separating and ensure uniform cannabinoid distribution.

• Lecithin: A natural emulsifier derived from soy or sunflower, lecithin binds with both oil and water components, facilitating a stable emulsion.
• MCT Oil: Medium-chain triglyceride oil aids in mixing RSO with water-based liquids, enhancing solubility and consistency.

2. Double Boiler Infusion Method

Using a double boiler allows for gentle heating of oils, preventing the degradation of cannabinoids and maintaining the integrity of RSO during infusion.

• Procedure:
  1. Fill the bottom pot of the double boiler with water and bring to a gentle simmer.
  2. Place a high-fat oil (such as coconut or MCT oil) and the desired amount of RSO in the top pot.
  3. Heat the mixture on low, ensuring the temperature remains below 200°F (93°C).
  4. Stir continuously until RSO is fully dissolved into the oil.
  5. Remove from heat and allow to cool before using in beverages.
• Tips:
  • Monitor the temperature closely to avoid overheating.
  • Use high-quality, unrefined oils for better taste and cannabinoid preservation.

3. Blending for Enhanced Emulsification

Blending is a highly effective method to integrate RSO into beverages, ensuring homogeneity and preventing separation.

• Tools: High-speed blender, immersion blender.
• Procedure:
  1. Add all ingredients, including RSO and emulsifiers, to the blender.
  2. Blend on high speed for several minutes until the mixture is smooth and emulsified.
  3. Pour into serving containers and consume immediately or store as needed.
• Tips:
  • Adding ice can help in creating a colder, more palatable beverage.
  • Blending with fruits or other flavor enhancers can mask the taste of RSO.

Dosage and Safety Considerations

Proper dosing is crucial when infusing beverages with RSO to ensure safety and efficacy.

1. Determining Appropriate Dosage

• Start Low: Begin with a small amount of RSO (e.g., 0.25 to 0.5 grams) to gauge individual tolerance.
• Calculate Potency: Consider the THC and CBD concentrations in your RSO to determine the total cannabinoid content per serving.
• Adjust Accordingly: Increase the dosage gradually based on personal experience and desired effects.

2. Labeling and Storage

• Clear Labeling: Mark infused beverages with cannabinoid content and dosage per serving to prevent accidental overconsumption.
• Storage:
  • Store in airtight containers to maintain potency and prevent degradation.
  • Keep away from direct sunlight and in a cool, dark place.
  • Refrigerate if necessary, especially for drinks that contain dairy or other perishable ingredients.
• Safety Precautions:
  • Keep infused products out of reach of children and pets.
  • Adhere to local regulations and guidelines regarding the use and storage of cannabis-infused products.

3. Legal Compliance

Ensure that the preparation and consumption of RSO-infused beverages comply with local cannabis laws and regulations.

• Know the Law: Familiarize yourself with the legal status of cannabis and cannabinoid products in your jurisdiction.
• Age Restrictions: Adhere to age limits for cannabis consumption to prevent underage use.
• Public Consumption: Be aware of restrictions on consuming cannabis-infused products in public spaces.

Advanced Techniques for Expert Users

1. Creating RSO-Infused Alcohol-Based Tinctures

Tinctures offer a versatile method for infusing alcohol with RSO, suitable for use in a variety of cocktails and mixed drinks.

• Ingredients: High-proof alcohol (e.g., Everclear), RSO.
• Procedure:
  1. Combine high-proof alcohol with RSO in a glass container.
  2. Seal and shake vigorously for several minutes to ensure thorough mixing.
  3. Allow the mixture to sit for at least 24 hours, shaking occasionally.
  4. Strain the tincture through a fine filter to remove any undissolved particles.
  5. Store the tincture in an amber glass bottle to protect from light.
• Usage: Add a measured amount of the tincture to cocktails or other beverages as desired.
• Tips:
  • Start with small doses to assess potency.
  • Use precise measuring tools to control dosage accurately.

2. Incorporating RSO into Non-Dairy Milk Alternatives

Non-dairy milk alternatives like almond, soy, and oat milk can serve as excellent bases for RSO infusions, especially for vegans and those with lactose intolerance.

• Procedure:
  1. Warm the non-dairy milk gently on the stove or in a microwave.
  2. Add RSO directly to the warm milk.
  3. Incorporate an emulsifier such as lecithin or MCT oil to enhance mixing.
  4. Whisk or blend the mixture until the RSO is fully dissolved.
  5. Use immediately in coffee, tea, or as a standalone beverage.
• Tips:
  • Avoid boiling to preserve the cannabinoids.
  • Flavor with vanilla extract or cocoa powder for added taste.

3. Crafting RSO-Infused Herbal Elixirs

Herbal elixirs combine the therapeutic benefits of RSO with the medicinal properties of various herbs, creating synergistic effects.

• Ingredients:
  • 1 gram RSO
  • Herbal tea of choice (e.g., chamomile, ginger, peppermint)
  • 1 tablespoon honey or agave syrup
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/8 teaspoon lecithin (optional)
• Instructions:
  1. Prepare a strong herbal tea by steeping the herbs in hot water for 5-7 minutes.
  2. Remove the tea leaves or tea bag and allow the tea to cool slightly.
  3. Add RSO to the warm tea, stirring continuously to ensure dissolution.
  4. Incorporate honey and lemon juice, stirring until well mixed.
  5. For enhanced emulsification, add lecithin and whisk thoroughly.
  6. Serve warm or chilled based on preference.
• Tips:
  • Choose herbs that complement the effects of cannabis for a tailored experience.
  • Adjust sweetness to balance the herbal and earthy flavors.

Best Practices for Home Kitchen and DIY Enthusiasts

1. Ensuring Proper Emulsification

Achieving a stable emulsion is critical for the effectiveness and consistency of RSO-infused beverages.

• Use Adequate Emulsifiers: Lecithin and MCT oil are essential for blending RSO with water-based liquids.
• Temperature Control: Warm liquids aid in dissolving RSO but avoid excessive heat that can degrade cannabinoids.
• Thorough Mixing: Utilize high-speed or immersion blenders to ensure complete emulsification.

2. Accurate Dosage Measurement

Precise measurement ensures safe and predictable effects from your RSO-infused beverages.

• Use a Digital Scale: Accurately measure RSO to maintain consistency across servings.
• Calculate Potency: Understand the concentration of THC and CBD in your RSO to determine appropriate dosages.
• Label Clearly: Mark containers with dosage information to prevent overconsumption.

3. Enhancing Flavor Profiles

Masking the earthy taste of RSO can make infused beverages more palatable.

• Use Strong Flavors: Citrus juices, berries, and spices can effectively mask the taste of cannabis.
• Add Sweeteners: Honey, agave syrup, or simple syrup can sweeten the drink and improve flavor balance.
• Incorporate Fresh Herbs: Mint, basil, or rosemary can add a refreshing twist to your beverages.

4. Storage and Shelf Life

Proper storage prolongs the shelf life and maintains the potency of RSO-infused beverages.

• Airtight Containers: Use glass bottles or jars with tight-fitting lids to prevent oxidation.
• Cool and Dark Environment: Store beverages away from direct sunlight and in a cool place to preserve cannabinoids.
• Refrigeration: Refrigerate drinks with perishable ingredients or those intended for long-term storage.

5. Safety and Compliance

• Understand Local Laws: Ensure that your activities comply with regional cannabis regulations.
• K2 and D3 Precautions: Keep all infused products away from children and pets, clearly labeling containers to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Start with Low Doses: Especially important for new users, to assess individual tolerance before increasing intake.

Conclusion

Infusing RSO into beverages is a straightforward process that can be mastered with the right techniques and understanding. Emulsification using lecithin or MCT oil, creating RSO-infused simple syrups, and direct addition to high-fat beverages are among the simplest and most effective methods. The versatility of RSO allows for a wide range of drink recipes, from hot toddies to smoothies and cocktails, catering to diverse tastes and preferences. Accurate dosing, proper storage, and adherence to safety guidelines are paramount for a positive and enjoyable experience. Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a home kitchen expert, these comprehensive methods and recipes provide the tools necessary to seamlessly integrate full-spectrum THC into your favorite beverages.