Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) in Pitkin County: The Complete Guide by OilWell Cannabis
We at OilWell Cannabis understand that residents of Pitkin County live life at a different altitude—literally and figuratively. Whether you’re skiing Aspen’s fresh powder, hiking the Maroon Bells, or navigating the unique healthcare landscape of the Roaring Fork Valley, you need health solutions that work as hard as you do. You deserve cannabis education that respects your intelligence, matches your standards for quality, and acknowledges the real challenges of accessing specialized medicine in mountain communities.
This guide is our commitment to Pitkin County: complete, evidence-based, unflinchingly honest information about Rick Simpson Oil (RSO) that you can use to make informed decisions for yourself, your family, or your aging parents in Basalt. We won’t sell you snake oil. We won’t sell you hope. But we will give you the best possible version of the information—grounded in peer-reviewed science, transparent about what we know and don’t know, and adapted specifically for the realities of living in Colorado’s most discerning mountain county.
What Rick Simpson Oil Actually Is—And Why It Matters in Pitkin County
The Man Behind the Name
Rick Simpson was born in 1949 in Amherst, Nova Scotia—about as far from Aspen as you can get culturally and geographically. He wasn’t a doctor, scientist, or medical researcher. He was a power engineer and maintenance worker, a blue-collar tradesman whose journey into cannabis began when the medical system failed him catastrophically.
In 1997, while working at a hospital in Moncton, New Brunswick, Simpson fell from scaffolding and sustained a serious head injury. The aftermath—persistent tinnitus, dizziness, post-concussion symptoms—was never adequately resolved by conventional medicine. When he asked his physician about cannabis as an option, the request was refused outright . That rejection, in a moment of genuine medical need, became the seed of a global movement.
Important context for Pitkin County readers: We share this story because it mirrors experiences we’ve heard from patients across Colorado—from construction workers in Glenwood Springs to ski patrollers in Snowmass who’ve faced workplace injuries and found themselves cycling through ineffective prescriptions. Simpson’s story resonates because it’s fundamentally about a regular person seeking alternatives when institutional medicine fell short.
The 2003 Skin Cancer Incident That Started Everything
The pivotal moment came in 2003 when Simpson reported that three bumps on his arm were diagnosed as basal cell carcinoma. Rather than pursue conventional treatment, he applied concentrated cannabis oil directly to the lesions, covered them with bandages, and claimed they disappeared within four days.
Here’s what matters for Pitkin County residents: No independent medical verification of this outcome has ever been published. No biopsy confirmation. No clinical follow-up in any peer-reviewed source. This was personal testimony, not medical evidence. However, it was historically significant as the catalyst for a global movement .
We state this explicitly because honesty is the foundation of trust. In a community like Pitkin County, where residents have access to world-class healthcare at Aspen Valley Hospital and Valley View Hospital, you understand the difference between anecdote and evidence. We respect that intelligence.
The Free Distribution Model That Defined an Era
After his 2003 experience, Simpson committed himself to producing and distributing concentrated cannabis oil—completely free of charge. Operating from his property in Maccan, Nova Scotia, he made oil in large quantities and gave it away to cancer patients and others in his community. He charged nothing. He helped dozens of people with conditions including cancer, chronic pain, diabetes, infections, glaucoma, arthritis, depression, insomnia, and more .
This ethos—medicine as a gift, not a commodity—directly influenced how we built OilWell. We don’t give our products away (we’re a licensed business with real overhead), but we do give away something equally valuable: our complete formulas, published openly so that anyone who can’t afford our products can make their own. More on that later.
The Documentary That Made RSO a Household Name
Simpson’s story reached global audiences through the 2005 documentary Run From The Cure, directed by Christian Laurette. The film showed testimonials, documented Simpson’s claims, and framed his work as a grassroots challenge to pharmaceutical interests. It became foundational in cannabis communities—many people worldwide, including some in Pitkin County, first learned about RSO through this film .
The Legal Battles That Forced Him Into Exile
Simpson’s advocacy brought him into direct conflict with Canadian law. The RCMP raided his property in 2005 and again in 2009. He was charged with cultivation, possession, and trafficking. Eventually, facing continued legal pressure, he left Canada for Europe, living in Croatia and the Netherlands while continuing his advocacy from abroad .
This history matters in Pitkin County because it contextualizes why legal, Farm Bill-compliant products like ours are so important. The underground cannabis world that Simpson operated in is no longer the only option. You can access multi-cannabinoid RSO legally, with lab testing, from a licensed Texas operator—and have it shipped directly to your home in Aspen, Snowmass Village, Basalt, or anywhere else in Pitkin County.
Traditional Rick Simpson Oil: What It Actually Was
The Crude Production Process
Traditional RSO was defined by its method, not by lab specifications. Simpson’s process was rudimentary but reproducible:
- Place dried cannabis in a bucket
- Cover with solvent (naphtha or 99% isopropyl alcohol)
- Agitate to dissolve cannabinoids
- Filter through cheesecloth
- Evaporate solvent in a rice cooker
- Transfer thick, tar-like oil to syringes
Critical safety note for Pitkin County DIYers: Naphtha is a petroleum-based solvent that may contain benzene, toluene, and other carcinogens. Isopropyl alcohol is not food-grade. Incomplete solvent purging leaves potentially harmful residues. This is not a process we recommend, especially in residential settings common throughout Pitkin County’s mountain towns.
The Product Characteristics
Traditional RSO was:
- Nearly black, thick, tar-like consistency
- Strong cannabis odor with possible solvent residuals
- Estimated 60-90% THC content (never lab-verified)
- Fully decarboxylated (all THCa converted to THC)
- Essentially devoid of terpenes due to heat destruction
- Completely unstandardized—every batch different
- Never tested for contaminants
The 60-Gram, 90-Day Protocol
Simpson’s famous protocol involved consuming 60 grams of oil over roughly 90 days:
Week 1: Half a grain of rice-sized dose (10-15mg) three times daily
Weeks 2-5: Double dose every four days, reaching ~1 gram per day by week 5
Weeks 5-12: Maintain 1 gram daily (divided into three doses)
Post-protocol: 1-2 grams monthly maintenance
Important context for Pitkin County readers evaluating this protocol:
- No controlled trial validation exists
- At peak dosing, patients consumed ~600-900mg of delta-9 THC daily—far exceeding any studied clinical dose
- Real risks at these doses include severe intoxication, anxiety, panic, tachycardia, and cannabis use disorder
- For cancer patients, using unregulated oil as primary treatment can lead to delayed or foregone proven therapies
We present this protocol because you deserve complete information, but we do not recommend following it with modern products. Our RSO formulas are fundamentally different and require different dosing approaches.
Traditional RSO vs. Modern Formulated RSO: The Complete Comparison
Pitkin County residents expect transparency. Here’s exactly how traditional RSO compares to OilWell’s modern formulation across eleven critical dimensions:
| Dimension | Traditional RSO | OilWell Formulated RSO |
|---|---|---|
| Source material | Single high-THC indica strain | Multi-cannabinoid blend from multiple sources |
| Extraction method | Naphtha or isopropyl alcohol | Food-grade ethanol/CO₂ (solvent-free final product) |
| Cannabinoid profile | THC-dominant, uncontrolled | Seven defined cannabinoids at specific ratios |
| Terpene content | Destroyed by heat | Live terpenes at 5% with defined seven-terpene profile |
| Standardization | None—every batch different | Lab-tested with specific mg/mL targets (553 mg/mL) |
| Lab testing | Not performed | Full panel: potency, terpenes, pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, microbes |
| Residual solvents | Significant risk with naphtha | Controlled and tested—none in final product |
| Dosing precision | Approximate, syringe-based | Measured per mL with graduated dropper (0.1 mL increments) |
| Product formats | Single thick oil only | Sublingual oil AND vape cartridge with format-specific formulas |
| THCa preservation | No—fully decarboxylated by heat | Yes—THCa included as separate ingredient at 1,500 mg |
| Evidence approach | Anecdotal, personal testimony | Research-backed, evidence-weighted with 29 peer-reviewed citations |
Why Our Formulas Diverge from Traditional RSO (And Why That Matters for Pitkin County)
1. The Multi-Cannabinoid Approach
Traditional RSO relied on whatever single strain the maker grew. Our sublingual formula intentionally includes seven cannabinoids:
- CBD (4,500 mg): The most evidence-developed nonintoxicating cannabinoid, with human clinical support for seizure disorders and emerging evidence for anxiety and pain [1][3][4]
- CBG (3,000 mg): A promising minor cannabinoid with preclinical interest in neurologic disorders and inflammation, though human evidence remains sparse [7][8]
- Delta-8 THC (6,000 mg): A psychoactive cannabinoid with real pharmacologic activity, less potent than delta-9 but requiring caution due to incomplete safety characterization [9]-[11]
- THCa (1,500 mg): The acidic precursor preserved separately for patient-controlled activation [12]
- Delta-9 THC (90 mg): Only 3 mg/mL—well under Farm Bill limits—while still providing the therapeutic relevance that NCCIH acknowledges for nausea and pain [1][13]
- CBN (750 mg): Marketed for sleep, though specific evidence remains weak and dated [16][17]
- CBC (750 mg): An emerging minor cannabinoid with distinct pharmacology but limited clinical validation [18][19]
What this means for Pitkin County: Whether you’re dealing with post-ski joint pain in Aspen, anxiety from high-stress finance work, or sleep issues at altitude, multiple cannabinoids address multiple pathways simultaneously. This isn’t about a single magic bullet—it’s about comprehensive support.
2. Terpene Preservation and Addition
Traditional RSO had essentially no terpenes due to heat destruction. We include live terpenes at 5% with a specific seven-terpene profile:
- Limonene: Citrus-bright aroma with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential [21]
- Myrcene: Earthy notes with anxiolytic properties (though human evidence is limited) [23]
- Caryophyllene: Pepper/spice with selective CB2 agonism—arguably the most cannabinoid-relevant terpene [24]
- Pinene: Forest-fresh scent with potential neuroprotective properties [25]
- Linalool: Floral lavender notes with stress-modulating potential [26]
- Humulene: Woody, earthy aroma with anti-inflammatory interest [27]
- Terpinolene: Complex piney-fruity profile with broad biological effects [28]
For the discerning Pitkin County palate: These terpenes create a sensory experience that matches the sophistication of your community. The aroma is complex, the taste is refined, and the potential entourage effects—while still being clinically studied—add another layer of therapeutic possibility [20][29].
3. THCa as a Separate Ingredient for Patient-Controlled Potency
This is perhaps our most innovative departure from tradition. Traditional RSO was always fully decarboxylated—patients had no choice about psychoactivity. Our sublingual formula includes 1,500 mg of THCa in its acidic, non-psychoactive form.
What this means practically for Pitkin County residents:
Option 1: Raw, no heat (non-psychoactive)
All 1,500 mg stays as THCa. You get anti-inflammatory COX-2 inhibition and neuroprotective PPARγ agonism [12] with zero impairment. Perfect for daytime use before hitting the slopes, attending a board meeting, or driving to Glenwood Springs.
Option 2: Fully activated (home decarboxylation)
Heat at 260°F for 45-60 minutes converts 1,500 mg THCa → ~1,315 mg delta-9 THC. Combined with existing 90 mg delta-9 THC, you get ~1,405 mg total delta-9 THC plus 6,000 mg delta-8 THC. This delivers psychoactive potency comparable to traditional illegal RSO—100% legally, because activation happens at your discretion after purchase.
Option 3: Partial activation
Transfer a portion to an oven-safe container, decarboxylate only what you need, and preserve the remainder raw. This gives you precise control over your experience.
Option 4: Vape for instant activation
Our vape cartridge auto-decarboxylates at 400-450°F, delivering freshly activated cannabinoids with each puff—ideal for breakthrough pain or acute anxiety.
This flexibility matters in Pitkin County, where your daily activities range from physically demanding outdoor recreation to high-stakes professional work. You control the experience, not the product.
4. Reduced Delta-9 THC Dominance
Traditional RSO was 60-90% delta-9 THC. Our formula contains only 90 mg total delta-9 THC in the entire 30 mL bottle (3 mg/mL). This dramatically reduces impairment risk while maintaining therapeutic relevance through the entourage effect with other cannabinoids [20][29].
5. Product Format Innovation
Simpson had one crude format. We offer two:
Sublingual Oil (30 mL – $129.99)
- 553 mg total cannabinoids per mL
- Onset: 15-45 minutes
- Duration: 4-6 hours
- Bioavailability: 13-19%
- ~40-60 doses per bottle
- Organic MCT oil base, not tar-like solvent residue
Vape Cartridge (1 Gram – $49.99)
- 900+ mg total cannabinoids
- Onset: 1-2 minutes (fastest delivery)
- Duration: 2-4 hours
- Bioavailability: 10-35%
- 510-thread universal battery compatibility
- Instant THCa decarboxylation
When to use which format in Pitkin County:
| Your Situation | Recommended Format | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Fast relief (acute pain, panic attack) | Vape | 1-2 minute onset works when you need immediate support |
| Sustained relief (chronic pain, sleep) | Sublingual | 4-6 hour duration covers you through the night |
| Maximum absorption | Sublingual | 13-19% bioavailability, partially bypasses liver |
| Discretion at high-end events | Vape | Compact, no measuring, minimal odor |
| Precise dosing for elderly parents | Sublingual | Graduated dropper allows 0.1 mL precision |
| Daytime functional use (skiing, work) | Sublingual (raw) | Non-psychoactive THCa, zero impairment |
| Nighttime full-potency relief | Sublingual (decarbed) or Vape | Activated cannabinoids for deep rest |
The OilWell Origin Story: Why We Do This
Bentley: The Dog Who Started Everything
OilWell Cannabis didn’t begin with a business plan. It began with a dog named Bentley in a moment of desperate love.
Bentley was more than a pet—he was family. When veterinarians delivered the verdict every pet owner dreads (euthanasia was the only humane option for his paralysis), Colin refused to accept it. Bentley’s back legs were paralyzed, pain medications would destroy his organs, and the choice was prolonged suffering or immediate mercy killing.
In that desperation, a rescue worker named Jessica asked the question that changed everything: “You’ve moved how many tons of weed and you’ve never heard of CBD?”
Colin had cannabis experience, but it was recreational. He’d never explored therapeutic applications. That blind spot became a mission.
He learned to create CBD golden paste—a specialized cannabinoid formula for pets. It wasn’t a cure, but it was hope. And that hope delivered what veterinary medicine said was impossible: Bentley got up. He walked over to Colin and brought him his ball.
Dogs don’t respond to placebo. This was cannabinoid medicine doing what pharmaceuticals could not.
Bentley lived another ten years, passing naturally at age twenty. During those years, Colin developed specialized formulas for every age-related condition Bentley faced:
- Neurodegeneration → CBG’s neuroprotective properties and THCa’s PPARγ agonism
- Dementia → CBC’s role in neurogenesis
- Glaucoma → THC’s CB1 agonism for intraocular pressure
- Crippling arthritis → Multi-pathway anti-inflammatory approach using CBD, CBG, THCa, and beta-caryophyllene
Single cannabinoids were not enough. Bentley’s evolving conditions required multi-cannabinoid synergy. This decade of formulation development—keeping a loved companion alive—is the foundation of every OilWell product you can access in Pitkin County today.
The Golden Paste Recipe: Our First Open-Source Formula
Because Bentley’s story is our foundation, we published the exact recipe that saved him—so any pet owner in Pitkin County facing a similar crisis can make it themselves:
CBD Golden Paste Recipe for Pets:
- ½ cup organic turmeric powder
- 1 cup water
- ⅓ cup unrefined organic coconut oil
- 1-2 teaspoons freshly ground black pepper (critical for absorption)
- CBD oil (dosage depends on pet size; consult your veterinarian)
Instructions:
- Mix turmeric and water in saucepan, stir over low heat until thick paste forms (7-10 minutes)
- Add coconut oil and pepper, mix thoroughly
- Cool and store refrigerated up to two weeks
- Mix with pet’s food once or twice daily
This recipe—published for free years before our RSO formulas were open-sourced—demonstrates that our philosophy isn’t marketing. It’s who we are.
Colin’s Personal Journey: From PTSD and Benzo Addiction to Healing
Colin also knows pharmaceutical dependence personally. He struggled with PTSD and benzodiazepine addiction, using Xanax to cope. When he decided to break free, he did it cold turkey—a notoriously difficult and dangerous process—using the cannabinoid knowledge he’d developed keeping Bentley alive.
The Peace Gummies formula that became an OilWell product was created during midnight experiments while fighting through benzo withdrawal. To ensure quick relief, OilWell also offers Peace Gummies in vape form, which Colin personally uses to manage his insomnia and severe PTSD on an ongoing basis.
This is not theoretical knowledge. Colin lived what RSO patients live: the desperation for relief, the failure of pharmaceuticals, the discovery that cannabinoids work when pills do not.
Our Formulas: Complete Transparency for Pitkin County
We publish our complete formulas because you deserve to know exactly what you’re putting in your body—or what you’re making for yourself if you choose the DIY route.
RSO Sublingual Oil Formula
| Cannabinoid | Amount |
|---|---|
| CBD | 4,500mg |
| CBG | 3,000mg |
| Delta-8 THC | 6,000mg |
| THCa | 1,500mg |
| Delta-9 THC | 90mg |
| CBN | 750mg |
| CBC | 750mg |
| Total Cannabinoids | 16,590mg |
- Live Terpenes: 5% (limonene, myrcene, caryophyllene, pinene, linalool, humulene, terpinolene)
- Base: Organic MCT oil
- Format: 30mL bottle with graduated dropper (0.1 mL increments)
- Potency: 553 mg/mL
- Price: $129.99
About those terpenes for Pitkin County’s sophisticated palate:
- Limonene: Citrus-bright notes, potential anti-inflammatory activity [21]
- Myrcene: Earthy undertones, anxiolytic properties (preclinical) [23]
- Caryophyllene: Pepper/spice, selective CB2 agonist [24]
- Pinene: Forest-fresh scent, neuroprotective potential [25]
- Linalool: Floral lavender, stress-modulating [26]
- Humulene: Woody, earthy, anti-inflammatory interest [27]
- Terpinolene: Complex piney-fruity profile [28]
RSO Vape Cartridge Formula
| Cannabinoid | Percentage |
|---|---|
| CBD | 30% |
| CBG | 20% |
| Delta-8 THC | 15% |
| THCa | 10% |
| CBN | 10% |
| CBC | 10% |
- Live Terpenes: 5%+
- Format: 1-gram cartridge
- Compatibility: 510-thread universal batteries (available throughout Pitkin County)
- Price: $49.99
For Pitkin County’s active lifestyle: The vape format offers 1-2 minute onset—ideal for breakthrough pain during a mountain bike ride on the Rio Grande Trail or acute anxiety before a high-stakes meeting in downtown Aspen.
Evidence-Based Usage Contexts for Pitkin County Residents
Critical disclaimer: These usage contexts are informed by the 29 peer-reviewed citations throughout this document [1]-[29]. They are not medical prescriptions, not FDA-approved, and not substitutes for professional medical care. Our products have not been evaluated by the FDA and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Always consult your healthcare provider—especially important in Pitkin County where you have access to excellent physicians at Aspen Valley Hospital and Valley View Hospital.
Chemotherapy-Related Nausea and Appetite Support
- Pre-chemo: 0.5-1.0 mL sublingual approximately 1 hour before treatment
- Acute breakthrough nausea: 2-3 vape puffs for immediate relief (1-2 minute onset)
- Post-chemo: 0.5 mL sublingual every 6 hours as needed
- Sleep support during treatment: 1.0-2.0 mL sublingual before bed (delivers 25-50 mg CBN)
- Evidence: Delta-8 antiemetic research [9], delta-9 THC nausea evidence [1][13], CBD anxiolytic buffering [3]
Chronic Pain (Fibromyalgia, Arthritis, Neuropathy)
- Daytime (skiing, hiking, working): 0.3-0.5 mL raw sublingual—anti-inflammatory without impairment
- Nighttime: 0.5-1.0 mL decarboxylated sublingual—pain relief plus CBN sleep support
- Breakthrough pain: Vape as needed for rapid onset
- Evidence: CBD pain research [4], delta-9 THC pain studies [13], beta-caryophyllene CB2 activation [24], THCa COX-2 inhibition [12]
Sleep Support at Altitude
Pitkin County’s high altitude can disrupt sleep architecture. Our formula addresses this specifically:
- Before bed: 1.0-2.0 mL sublingual delivers 25-50 mg CBN—the dosage range investigated in 2024 sleep literature [16][17]
- Evidence: CBN sleep research, though still emerging, shows promise at these concentrations [16][17]
Anxiety and Stress
- Daytime functional relief: 0.3 mL raw sublingual—CBD and CBG address anxiety pathways without psychoactive impairment
- Nighttime: 1.0 mL sublingual—full profile including CBN for sleep architecture
- Evidence: CBD anxiety research [3], CBG pharmacology [7][8], limonene entourage effects [20]
General Titration Principle for Pitkin County
Start low, go slow. Begin with 0.25-0.5 mL sublingual and assess effects over 2-3 hours before increasing. Individual responses vary based on body weight, metabolism, tolerance, concurrent medications (especially important given the polypharmacy common in older Pitkin County residents), and other factors.
How Pitkin County Residents Can Access OilWell RSO
Nationwide Shipping to Colorado
While we can’t offer same-day delivery to Pitkin County (our Houston operation is 1,000 miles away), we can get our products to you reliably and discreetly within 2-3 business days.
Shipping Options to Pitkin County:
- USPS Priority Mail: 2-3 business days, $9.95 flat rate
- FedEx 2-Day: Guaranteed 2 business days, $24.95
- UPS Ground: 3-5 business days, $14.95
- Temperature-stable packaging: Essential for summer shipments through Colorado’s variable climate
- Discreet packaging: No cannabis branding visible—important for privacy in close-knit mountain communities
- Tracking: Provided for all orders
- Signature-required option: Available for added security
International Access Note: While Pitkin County is firmly in the U.S., many of your neighbors have second homes or family overseas. Our THCa legal framework allows us to ship internationally to jurisdictions where hemp-derived products with <0.3% delta-9 THC are permitted. We’ve already delivered to multiple continents.
The THCa Legal Framework: Why This Works in Colorado
Colorado has legal recreational cannabis, which might make you wonder why you’d choose a Farm Bill-compliant product. Three reasons:
- No Medical Card Required: Our products are available to anyone 21+ without qualifying conditions
- Consistency: Our lab-tested formulas deliver precise ratios every time—crucial for therapeutic use
- Discretion: While cannabis is legal in Colorado, some employers still test. Our raw THCa option won’t trigger positive results (though activated/decarboxylated products will)
Our products contain 90 mg total delta-9 THC in the entire 30 mL bottle—well under the 0.3% Farm Bill threshold. All cannabinoids are hemp-derived. This is federally legal and ships legally to Colorado.
Customer responsibility: You are responsible for understanding and complying with Pitkin County and Colorado laws regarding cannabinoid products. We provide full documentation, COAs, and receipts with every shipment.
The Science Behind Every Compound: Our 29 Citation Foundation
We don’t just list ingredients—we show our work. Every cannabinoid and terpene in our formula connects to peer-reviewed research:
Cannabinoid Evidence Hierarchy
Strongest Human Evidence:
- CBD: Seizure disorders (Epidiolex approval) [1][2], emerging anxiety meta-analysis [3], pain research [4]
- Delta-9 THC: Chemo nausea, HIV appetite, pain (institutional positions) [1][13]
Emerging/Preclinical Evidence:
- CBG: Neuroprotective promise, but limited human trials [7][8]
- Delta-8 THC: Real pharmacologic activity, less robust safety data [9]-[11]
- THCa: Anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective potential, but interpretation depends on processing [12]
- CBN: Sleep reputation stronger than clinical evidence [16][17]
- CBC: Distinct pharmacology, early-stage research [18][19]
Terpene Evidence (More Conservative Interpretation Needed)
The entourage effect is plausible but not yet proven in robust human trials [20][29]. Our terpene profile is designed based on preclinical and review literature, but we make no inflated claims:
- Limonene: Multifunctional monoterpene with antioxidant/anti-inflammatory interest [21]
- Myrcene: Anxiolytic properties in preclinical models, lacking human confirmation [23]
- Caryophyllene: CB2 agonist—most cannabinoid-relevant terpene [24]
- Pinene: Neuroprotective signals, but cognition claims are exploratory [25]
- Linalool: Stress-modulating potential, but clinical proof limited [26]
- Humulene: Anti-inflammatory interest, early-stage [27]
- Terpinolene: Least clinically characterized, biologically interesting [28]
Critical Research Limits We Want Pitkin County to Understand
- Evidence is highly uneven—CBD and delta-9 THC support the strongest statements; others require more caution [1]-[29]
- Extract/molecule/synthetic data aren’t interchangeable—we never let one category stand in for another
- Minor cannabinoids are commercially interesting BECAUSE they’re underexplored—we acknowledge this tension
- Product quality matters as much as molecule identity—contamination, labeling accuracy, and dose variability all affect real-world outcomes [1][10][11][14]
- THCa chemistry changes with storage/heating—any claim must account for possible conversion to THC [12]
Common Overstatements We Avoid (And Competitors Make)
- “CBN is a proven sleep aid” → More accurate: Evidence remains weak, no strong trial base [16][17]
- “Myrcene is a proven sedative” → More accurate: Preclinical only, limited human proof [23]
- “Terpenes have proven entourage effects” → More accurate: Hypotheses are influential but clinical proof is limited [20][29]
- “THCa is always non-psychoactive” → More accurate: Can convert to THC with heating/processing [12]
- “Delta-8 is safe because it’s hemp-derived” → More accurate: Psychoactive, less characterized, manufacturing concerns [9]-[11]
Our Media Record: Seven ABC13 Features Over Four Years
We don’t just tell you we’re credible—major media has independently verified it. ABC13 Houston (KTRK), America’s fourth-largest city’s ABC affiliate, featured Colin Valencia and OilWell Cannabis in seven distinct news segments spanning 2019-2023. Five different reporters sought us out. No other Houston cannabis operator matches this frequency or breadth.
Complete Feature Chronology
1. September 15, 2019: Texas CBD businesses booming
Reporter: Tom Abrahams
Colin’s quote: “I’m not trying to sell people snake oil. I’m not trying to sell people hope, but there’s enough research out there that people just need to know and try and have the best possible version to base their opinions off of to give it a fair shot as to whether it’s right or wrong for them.”
This foundational quote appears throughout our materials because it captures our philosophy perfectly.
2. March 22, 2021: Entrepreneur creates direct-to-consumer business
Reporter: Tom Abrahams
Colin’s quote: “Pain comes in a lot of different forms.”
Context: National decriminalization push (Schumer, Booker, Wyden), Colin helping other entrepreneurs like Jonathan Pina
3. May 24, 2021: What is Delta 8 THC
Reporter: Steve Campion
Iconic exchange:
Campion: “Why would someone want to smoke that?”
Colin: “I don’t give a sh** if it’s wrong to say you’ll get high off it. Maybe you want to get high.”
This uncensored honesty on mainstream TV—with the expletive preserved—demonstrates our radical transparency.
4. August 20, 2021: Houston CBD shop giving away free products for COVID vaccine
The initiative: 1,000 caviar pre-rolls (~$35,000 in product) donated to encourage vaccination, hosted at HydroShack Hydroponics, coordinated with City of Houston
Colin’s quote: “We just want Houston to be as healthy as possible. We’re not doctors. We’re not experts on this . We don’t have any political agenda. Come and participate if it’s right and safe for you and your loved ones!”
5. October 19, 2021: Texas ban over Delta 8
Reporter: Shelley Childers
The crisis: Delta-8 classified as Schedule I overnight
Colin’s action: Proactively removed all products before enforcement, warned other operators they were unknowingly shipping Schedule I narcotics
Colin’s quote: “So those people are now, because they didn’t know, shipping Schedule 1 narcotics, and people are receiving it.”
6. October 7, 2022: Biden marijuana pardon
Reporter: Nick Natario
The revelation: Colin has personal marijuana conviction history
Colin’s quote: “I would love to see people not get hurt for this anymore.”
Context: 300,000 state arrests vs. 6,500 federal pardons, Abbott vs. O’Rourke politics
7. April 21, 2023: Marijuana industry getting creative
Reporter: Nick Natario
Colin’s framing: “Right now is actually a pretty – like Renaissance – pretty important time that should be enjoyed now.”
Context: Growing hemp on camera, HB1805 legislative push, Texas vs. Florida patient comparison (10K vs. 700K)
What This Media Record Means for Pitkin County
These features aren’t marketing—they’re independently produced editorial content from a major-market ABC affiliate that repeatedly identified Colin as Houston’s most credible cannabis voice. The through-line reveals:
- Consistency across years: From 2019-2023, through every legal shift, ABC13 returned to Colin
- Breadth of expertise: Business, law, medicine, community health, politics
- Community action: $35K in product donated, proactive ethical leadership during Delta-8 crisis
- Personal stakes: Colin’s conviction history makes every quote more powerful
- Evolution: From “local wholesaler” to industry Renaissance leader
The most important takeaway for Pitkin County: This recognition cannot be purchased. It can only be earned through years of honest education, community commitment, and ethical action.
The Complete Reference List: 29 Peer-Reviewed Citations
We provide these so you can verify our claims independently:
- National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. Cannabis Marijuana and Cannabinoids: What You Need To Know. NIH/NCCIH.
- Talwar A, et al. Clinical efficacy and safety of cannabidiol for pediatric refractory epilepsy. Exp Neurol. 2023.
- Han K, et al. Therapeutic potential of cannabidiol CBD in anxiety disorders. Psychiatry Res. 2024.
- Cásedas G, et al. Cannabidiol CBD: A systematic review of clinical and preclinical evidence in the treatment of pain. Pharmaceuticals. 2024.
- Ranum RM, et al. Use of cannabidiol in the management of insomnia. Cannabis Cannabinoid Res. 2023.
- Lo LA, et al. Cannabidiol-associated hepatotoxicity: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Intern Med. 2023.
- Nachnani R, et al. The pharmacological case for cannabigerol. J Pharmacol Exp Ther. 2021.
- Li S, et al. Cannabigerol CBG: A comprehensive review. Molecules. 2024.
- Tagen M, Klumpers LE. Review of delta-8-tetrahydrocannabinol. Br J Pharmacol. 2022.
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Final Thoughts for Pitkin County: Why OilWell RSO Belongs in Your Medicine Cabinet
Pitkin County residents have choices. You can walk into a dispensary in Aspen. You can consult with integrative physicians in Basalt. You can access world-class healthcare. So why choose OilWell?
Because we’re the only company that gives you everything:
- Complete formulas published openly—if you can source distillates, you can make it yourself
- Evidence-honest education—we distinguish between proven, emerging, and overstated claims
- Patient-controlled potency—raw THCa for daytime, activated for nighttime, vape for breakthrough
- Multi-cannabinoid precision—seven defined compounds, not crude single-strain extract
- Lab-tested safety—full panels for pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, microbes
- Proven credibility—seven ABC13 features, founder with personal conviction history, community health leadership
- Legal, discreet shipping—to your door in Aspen, Snowmass, Basalt, or anywhere in Pitkin County
We started when a paralyzed dog named Bentley got up and brought his ball. We built our formulas when a man quitting Xanax cold turkey needed relief that worked. We’ve been tested when the legal landscape changed overnight and we chose ethics over revenue.
For the cancer patient in Woody Creek researching options after a diagnosis at Valley View Hospital: We provide complete information about what the evidence actually shows—not cure claims, but honest assessment of supportive potential.
For the chronic pain sufferer in Snowmass Village tired of opioids after a ski injury: We offer multi-cannabinoid anti-inflammatory support with dosing you control, delivered discreetly.
For the veteran in Aspen managing PTSD: Our formulas were born from a founder who lives with severe PTSD and uses these exact products daily.
For the caregiver in Basalt helping aging parents: Our precise dosing and raw THCa option allow for daytime functional use without impairment.
For the wellness-focused resident who demands quality: Our organic MCT oil base, live terpenes, and third-party testing match your standards for clean, premium products.
How to Order for Pitkin County Delivery
Online: OilWellCBD.com
Phone: (832) 416-2816
Email: [email protected]
Instagram: @oilwellcbd
Shipping to Pitkin County:
- USPS Priority: 2-3 days, $9.95
- FedEx 2-Day: 2 days, $24.95
- UPS Ground: 3-5 days, $14.95
Age requirement: 21+
Payment: All major credit cards, discreet billing
Packaging: Plain, no cannabis branding
COAs: Included with every order, also available online
Legal notice: Our products contain less than 0.3% delta-9 THC and are Farm Bill compliant. Colorado law permits possession and use of hemp-derived cannabinoids by adults 21+. You are responsible for verifying current local regulations. Do not operate vehicles or machinery while using psychoactive cannabinoids. Consult your healthcare provider before use, especially if you have medical conditions or take medications.
OilWell Cannabis
810 Richmond Ave, Houston, TX 77006
Montrose neighborhood, Houston, Texas
Operating since 2019
Texas DSHS Licensed
Near-5.0 Google Rating
~$1M Annual Revenue
All products manufactured in-house
For Pitkin County, Colorado: We may be based in Houston, but our mission—to provide honest, effective, accessible cannabinoid medicine—reaches every corner of America where people are underserved by conventional options. Including yours.
This content is current as of March 2026. Legal and scientific landscapes evolve. Check our website for updates.
THCa Rick Simpson Oil
Full-Spectrum • In-House Extraction
THE OILWELL PASSION PROJECT: THCa RSO
Experience true full-spectrum relief. Our Rick Simpson Oil is meticulously crafted in-house to preserve the complete cannabinoid and terpene profile of the plant. Potent, pure, and profound.
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