Introduction
Melanoma is a serious and often very aggressive form of skin cancer. While surgery, immunotherapy, and radiation are still considered the standard treatments, many patients turn to explore different therapietic treatments to help support their healing, reduce the symptoms, and help cope emotionally. In 2025, more Americans facing melanoma are turning to Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) as an alternative treatment.
This blog post outlines how RSO is being used by patients to help support their skin cancer recovery, what patients are experiencing, and how to use the oil safely and effectively.
Why Melanoma Patients Are Turning to RSO
RSO is a highly concentrated cannabis oil whic is rich in THC, CBD, and a full profile of cannabinoids and terpenes. Melanoma patients are drawn towards RSO for so many reasons, which includes:
- Pain relief after surgery or during immunotherapy
- Anti-inflammatory effects to soothe skin irritation
- Support for sleep and stress reduction
- Appetite stimulation during treatment
- Emotional relief during a mentally demanding diagnosis
Some patients also turn to RSO to help affect tumor behavior when used alongside traditional treatments, though this is still under study.
What U.S. Patients Are Reporting in 2025
Patients using RSO for melanoma have all listed the following benefits:
Faster Post-Surgical Comfort
RSO helps ease nerve pain or muscle tension after the removal of your tumor or skin grafts. Some also use it topically (with guidance) for scar recovery.
Improved Sleep and Recovery
Many patients report that the night doses helps them sleep through the discomfort or anxiety without any trouble.
Stabilized Mood
Melanoma, especially at an advanced stages would cause emotional challenges. Low-doses of RSO is used to help the patients remain calm and mentally focused.
Reduced Skin Inflammation
Those dealing with radiation dermatitis or irritation from immunotherapy find that RSO helps reduce redness and flare-ups.
Real-World Examples
Carla, 44 – Arizona
Carla had melanoma removed from her shoulder. She used a 5mg RSO capsule each night during her recovery. “It helped me sleep without waking up from pain. I didn’t feel groggy, just calm.”
Nate, 61 – Florida
Diagnosed with Stage III melanoma, Nate used RSO both orally and topically after surgery. “It helped ease the burning sensation around the incision, and my appetite improved too.”
Janine, 53 – Oregon
After beginning immunotherapy, Janine developed skin sensitivity and sleep disruption. A low-dose RSO tincture helped with both. “I was finally able to rest and feel like myself again.”
Best Ways to Use RSO for Melanoma Support
Most patients prefer one or a combination of the following methods:
- Oral capsules or tinctures: Ideal for internal symptom support
- Topical applications: In some cases, used on healed skin with doctor guidance
- Microdosed gummies: Good for mood support during the day
- Full RSO protocol: Occasionally used by advanced-stage patients alongside traditional treatment, always under supervision
Topical use should always be approached cautiously—never apply RSO to open wounds or surgical sites without medical approval.
Suggested Dosage Guidelines
- Beginner dose: 2.5mg THC (capsule, tincture, or edible) before bed
- Moderate dose: 5–10mg as tolerated, often split into AM/PM use
- Advanced protocol: For intensive support, the 60g/90-day method may be considered under medical guidance
Track your response in a journal and consult your oncology team to avoid drug interactions or overuse.
Is RSO Safe to Use Alongside Immunotherapy?
Most patients turn to tolerate RSO well. However:
- THC may temporarily suppress their immune system which is a signal that it’s in high doses
- Cannabinoids may interact with your liver-processes and also your immunotherapy drugs
- Drowsiness or cognitive fog may be experienced by sensitive individuals
Always talk to your doctor or a cannabis healthcare provider before you beging your cancer treatments with RSO.
How to Access RSO for Melanoma in the U.S. (2025)
Melanoma patients who are qualified to access medical cannabis are from the following states:
- California
- Arizona
- Florida
- Colorado
- New York
- Oregon
Steps to access the oil:
- Receive a medical marijuana recommendation
- Shop at a licensed dispensary
- Choose lab-tested, full-spectrum RSO products with verified THC/CBD level
Avoid oils which are unregulated or homemade extracts.
Final Thoughts: RSO as a Holistic Support Tool
While RSO isn’t considered as a cure for melanoma, it’s helping so many patients across the U.S. manage their pain, inflammation, sleep, and emotional stress during their fight against cancer. In 2025, it’s being embraced not as an alternative treatment but as a supportive treatment that brings about relief when used properly.
If you or a loved one is facing melanoma, consider speaking with a medical cannabis expert to determine whether RSO might help you heal more comfortably, both inside and out.
Explore RSO products tailored to skin and nerve recovery. Browse our melanoma recovery collection.
Review cannabis and skin cancer research: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov