At CBD & Herb , we're committed to making the most up-to-date and reliable knowledge about medicinal cannabis accessible. This is especially true when it comes to research that seamlessly aligns with the vision of Peter Vermeul , founder of CBD Spain and a pioneer in full-spectrum CBD oil.

A groundbreaking study was recently published in the Journal of Pediatrics and Child Health : the first clinical trial of a whole-spectrum cannabis extract (NTI164) in children with Rett syndrome . This is an important step, not only for patients and their families, but also for the broader recognition of full-spectrum cannabis as a serious medical tool.

What is Rett syndrome?

Rett syndrome is a rare, congenital developmental disorder that primarily affects girls. It is caused by a mutation in the MECP2 gene . Children with Rett often face significant challenges in communication, motor skills, breathing, and anxiety. For parents and caregivers, this represents a difficult and often daily struggle, with treatment options still limited.

The power of the whole extract

While many studies focus on a single component, such as isolated CBD, NTI164 takes a different approach: the whole plant extract . This means that not only cannabidiol (CBD), but also cannabinoid acids (such as CBDA), terpenes, and other active ingredients are preserved in their natural ratios.

This ties in directly with Peter Vermeul 's vision: it is precisely the synergy of all components together – also known as the entourage effect – that allows the plant to demonstrate its full potential.

The study: striking results

Eleven girls between the ages of 5 and 16 were given NTI164 twice daily for twelve weeks. What the researchers observed is remarkable:

• Increased communication and alertness – children made more eye contact, responded more socially, and were able to maintain their attention better.

• Reduced anxiety and behavioral problems – anxiety complaints decreased and repetitive behaviors were reduced.

• Improved daily living skills – simple but important choices, such as saying yes or no, became easier.

• Better quality of life – not only for the children themselves, but also for parents and caregivers, who experienced less disease pressure.

This broad effect – from behaviour to breathing and from mood to communication – underscores the power of a full-spectrum approach: influencing multiple switches simultaneously .

Composition and safety

NTI164 contains:

• very low THC content (only 0.08% ),

• high percentage of CBDA (~62%) and CBD (~14%) ,

• traces of rare cannabinoids such as CBGA and CBDV,

• a rich terpene profile that contributes to both effect and taste.

The product is manufactured in Australia under strict pharmaceutical standards, free from contaminants, and meets the highest quality standards.

International recognition

The potential of NTI164 is now recognized worldwide:

• Australia : Available under strictly regulated programs and clinical trials.

• Europe : Orphan drug status granted by the EMA for Rett syndrome in March 2025.

• United States : Granted orphan drug status by the FDA in November 2024.

This means that NTI164 is officially seen as a promising drug for a rare disease – an important step towards future approval.

What does this mean for the future of CBD?

For the families living with Rett syndrome every day, this research offers hope. But it also reveals something larger: the recognition that whole cannabis extracts can offer more than just single compounds .

For CBD & Herb and Peter Vermeul, this confirms what he has been advocating for years: the plant must be used in its entirety. It is precisely this vision that we proudly promote in our collaboration with CBD Spain .

👉 Want to read all about this study, including its composition, scientific analysis, and global legal status? Then check out Peter Vermeul's full article: Breakthrough in Rett Syndrome: The First Medicinal Full-Spectrum Cannabis Extract (NTI164) to Be Clinically Studied