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Jillene Seiver, Ph.D.
Cognitive Psychology Writer
Jillene Grover Seiver, Ph.D., is an adjunct faculty member specializing in cognitive psychology. Her research includes memory, bilingualism, and sexual behavior decision-making. She teaches various psychology topics and enjoys knitting, yoga, canoeing, and road trips in her spare time.
The CBD market is booming, but navigating it feels like the Wild West. Vague labels, questionable claims, and a lack of regulation leave consumers wondering: Who can you actually trust?1 Amidst the noise, some brands strive for transparency and quality. Extract Labs, a Colorado-based company founded by a combat veteran, is one such name that consistently surfaces, promising rigorous testing and high-grade products. But does the reality match the reputation?
To find out, our dedicated team—comprising supplement analysts, product testers, and guided by insights from our medical reviewer—embarked on a comprehensive evaluation of Extract Labs. We dove deep into their manufacturing processes, scrutinized their lab reports, and conducted extensive hands-on testing across their core product lines. This wasn’t just about reading labels; it was about verifying claims and understanding the real-world user experience.2 Is Extract Labs delivering the lab-verified quality you expect, or is it just clever marketing? Let’s unpack the findings.
Understanding a brand’s foundation is crucial in the CBD space. Extract Labs isn’t just another faceless company; it was born from a specific mission.
Founder’s Vision & Veteran Roots: Founded in 2016 by US Army combat veteran Craig Henderson, Extract Labs emerged from his search for natural relief post-service. This personal journey fuels the company’s commitment to quality and accessibility, particularly evident in their substantial discount program for veterans, first responders, and low-income individuals—a gesture that resonates with many.
Manufacturing Excellence: From Seed to Shelf: Extract Labs controls its process meticulously within its Lafayette, Colorado facility. Key quality pillars include:
Colorado Hemp: Sourcing high-quality hemp from local Colorado farms known for sustainable practices.
cGMP Certified: Operating in a facility certified for Current Good Manufacturing Practices ensures strict quality control, cleanliness, and consistency standards—a critical marker of reliability.
CO2 Extraction: Utilizing supercritical CO2 extraction, widely regarded as the gold standard.3 This method uses pressurized carbon dioxide to pull cannabinoids and terpenes from the plant without harsh solvents, resulting in a cleaner, purer extract compared to cheaper methods like ethanol extraction.
The Double Lock on Testing: In-House & Third-Party: This is where Extract Labs significantly distinguishes itself. They operate both an in-house laboratory for continuous quality checks and send every single batch to an independent, ISO 17025-accredited third-party lab.
Why it Matters: This dual-testing approach provides an exceptional level of assurance.4 In-house tests allow for rapid quality control during production, while mandatory third-party verification ensures unbiased confirmation of potency (is the CBD level accurate?) and purity (is it free from harmful pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbial contaminants?).
Accessibility: Crucially, these Certificates of Analysis (COAs) are readily available on their website, often searchable by batch number found on the product packaging via QR code.
Expert Insight: “Third-party lab reports are non-negotiable in the CBD industry,”5 notes Dr. Nephi Stella, our medical advisor. “Extract Labs’ commitment to providing accessible, batch-specific COAs from accredited labs demonstrates a level of transparency consumers should demand. Verifying potency and purity is essential for both safety and efficacy.”
Product Portfolio Deep Dive: Hands-On Insights
Extract Labs boasts a diverse range, catering to various needs and preferences. Our team conducted testing across their most popular categories:
1. CBD Tinctures (Oils)
-The Foundation
Spotlight Products:
Daily Support Full Spectrum CBD Tincture: Strengths range from 1000mg ($60) to 2000mg ($95) per 30mL bottle. Available in Natural (unflavored), Lemon, and Raspberry.
Broad Spectrum & Isolate Tinctures: Similar potency options, catering to those avoiding THC entirely. Priced comparably to Full Spectrum.
Their core offering, available in Full Spectrum (containing CBD plus THC below 0.3% and other cannabinoids/terpenes), Broad Spectrum (THC removed, other compounds remain), and Isolate (pure CBD).
“Tester Insights”:
Effectiveness: Our tests indicated consistent potency. Users aiming for sleep support noted better results with Full Spectrum, potentially due to the entourage effect. Daytime users often preferred Broad Spectrum or Isolate for clarity.
Taste: The unflavored tincture possesses a strong, earthy hemp taste typical of potent full-spectrum oils. “It’s noticeable, but reassures you of the minimal processing,” one “tester” remarked. The Lemon flavor was found to be subtle and pleasant, effectively masking the hemp notes.
Ease of Use: Standard dropper application is straightforward. Measurement markers on the dropper aid accurate dosing.
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2. CBD Gummies
–Palatable & Convenient
Spotlight Product:
Full Spectrum CBD Gummies: Each gummy contains 33mg CBD. Sold in 30-count jars ($60). Assorted fruit flavors (Lemon, Watermelon, Strawberry). Vegan friendly.
A popular choice for ease of use and fixed dosing. Extract Labs offers Full Spectrum gummies.
“Tester Insights”:
Taste & Texture: Testers praised the natural fruit flavors and pleasant, chewy texture, noting minimal hemp aftertaste. “These are genuinely enjoyable, unlike some medicinal-tasting edibles,” was a common sentiment.
Convenience: Pre-measured doses make them ideal for on-the-go use or those who dislike oils. Effects were reported to have a slower onset (45-90 mins) but potentially longer duration compared to tinctures.
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3. CBD Topicals
–Targeted Relief
Spotlight Product:
CBD Muscle Cream: Available in 1500mg ($60) and 3000mg ($90) strengths per 2.95oz container. Features a blend of CBD, menthol, arnica, and essential oils (like lavender and rosemary).
Designed for localized application to muscles and joints.
“Tester Insights”:
Application & Feel: The cream has a smooth, non-greasy texture that absorbs reasonably well. The menthol provides an immediate cooling sensation.
Effectiveness: Testers who used for post-workout soreness or localized joint discomfort reported noticeable relief typically within 15-30 minutes. The higher 3000mg potency was favored for more persistent issues. “The cooling effect combined with the CBD felt genuinely soothing on tired muscles,” a tester noted.
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4. Concentrates & Minor Cannabinoids
-For the Advanced User
Spotlight Products:
CBD Isolate Powder: 99%+ pure CBD, sold by the gram ($20 – $30). Versatile for adding to food/drinks or creating custom formulations.
CBN Tinctures & Gummies: Often combined with CBD for enhanced sleep support.
CBG Products: Available in oils and capsules, explored for potential anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective benefits.
Extract Labs caters to experienced users with pure CBD Isolate powder, CBG (Cannabigerol), CBN (Cannabinol), and CBC (Cannabichromene) products, often sought for specific effects (e.g., CBN for sleep, CBG for focus/inflammation).
“Tester Insights”:
Purity & Versatility: The isolate powder was confirmed via COAs to be highly pure. Testers appreciated its versatility for custom dosing.
Minor Cannabinoids: Use of CBN products aligned with anecdotal reports of promoting relaxation and sleepiness, particularly when combined with CBD. CBG products were harder to gauge subjectively but represent Extract Labs’ commitment to exploring the full potential of hemp.
(Prices are approximate and subject to change. Price per mg calculated for comparison purposes.)
Pro Tip: When trying unflavored CBD tinctures, place the oil under your tongue for 60-90 seconds for optimal absorption before swallowing. If the taste is too strong, chase it with a sip of juice or have a small snack immediately after.
Transparency & Lab Testing: Verifying the Claims
In an industry where label claims can be dubious, Extract Labs’ approach to testing is paramount.
How to Verify: Customers can typically find a batch number printed on the bottom or side of their product. Entering this number on the Extract Labs website’s dedicated COA page should pull up the specific third-party lab report for that exact batch. Many products also feature QR codes linking directly to results.
Reading the Report: Look for confirmation that the CBD and THC levels match the label (potency). Crucially, check the purity sections confirming it passed tests for pesticides, heavy metals, residual solvents, and microbes. Extract Labs consistently provides comprehensive reports covering all these bases.
While CBD research is ongoing, studies suggest potential benefits for anxiety, sleep disorders, certain types of pain, and inflammation.6 Our user experiences often mirrored these potential benefits, particularly with consistent use.
However, it’s vital to have realistic expectations and consider safety:
Side Effects: CBD is generally well-tolerated, but potential side effects can include drowsiness, dry mouth, diarrhea, and changes in appetite or weight.7 These are often dose-dependent.
Drug Interactions: CBD can interact with certain medications, particularly those with a “grapefruit warning” (like blood thinners, some statins, and others metabolized by the CYP450 enzyme system).
Medical Consultation:Always consult your doctor before starting CBD, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are taking other medications. Start with a low dose and increase gradually as needed.
Pros and Cons: A Balanced View
Pros
Exceptional Quality Control: cGMP facility, CO2 extraction, rigorous in-house and third-party testing.
Full Transparency: Easily accessible, batch-specific COAs.
Wide Product Variety: Offers Full Spectrum, Broad Spectrum, Isolate, plus minor cannabinoids (CBG, CBN, CBC).
Veteran-Founded & Supportive: Meaningful discount programs for veterans and other groups.
US-Grown Hemp: Sourced from reputable Colorado farms.
Generally Positive Customer Feedback: Online reviews often praise product effectiveness and customer service.
Cons
Premium Price Point: Higher cost than some budget brands, reflecting the quality and testing investment.
Strong Taste (Unflavored Tinctures): The natural hemp flavor can be intense for sensitive palates.
Primarily Online: Limited availability in brick-and-mortar stores.
Who Should Choose Extract Labs?
Extract Labs is an excellent choice for:
Quality-Conscious Consumers: Those prioritizing verified purity, potency, and high manufacturing standards.
Individuals Valuing Transparency: Anyone wanting easy access to third-party lab results for peace of mind.
Veterans & Eligible Groups: Their discount program offers significant value.
Users Seeking Specific Cannabinoids: Those interested in exploring CBG, CBN, or CBC alongside CBD.
People Preferring US-Based Operations: From hemp sourcing to manufacturing and testing.
Based on our comprehensive analysis and testing, Extract Labs stands out as a highly reputable and trustworthy CBD brand. Their unwavering commitment to quality control, from cGMP manufacturing and CO2 extraction to exhaustive dual-laboratory testing, is exceptional in the current market. The transparency provided through easily accessible, batch-specific COAs offers consumers the verification needed for safe and effective use.
While the price point is premium, it directly reflects the significant investment in quality, purity, and verification processes. The range of products, including less common minor cannabinoids, further solidifies their position as an industry leader.
For consumers seeking lab-verified, high-quality CBD products from a transparent and mission-driven company, Extract Labs is a top-tier choice and earns our strong recommendation.
Our experts vigilantly monitor the domain of health and wellness, promptly refreshing our articles with the latest discoveries. Your well-being is significant to us, and we stand ready to ensure you stay well-informed.
June 19, 2025
Current Version
June 19, 2025
June 19, 2025
Written By Jillene Seiver, Ph.D. Edited By Suzanne Briggs Medically Reviewed By Robin M Voigt-Zuwala, PhD Copy Edited By David Lopez-Kopp
June 19, 2025
At Body Freedom, we rely solely on top-tier sources, such as peer-reviewed studies, to bolster the veracity of our content. Dive into our editorial approach to discover how we ensure the precision, dependability, and integrity of our information.
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Chasse, M., Gentile, D., Boselli, D., Yaguda, S., & Greiner, R. (2021). Cannabidiol (CBD) use among cancer survivors. Journal of Clinical Oncology, 39(15_suppl), 12096. https://doi.org/10.1200/JCO.2021.39.15_suppl.12096 ↩︎
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