Can you give CBD to children?
At The Tonic Tribe, one of the questions we hear more and more often from parents is: Can you give CBD to children? The short answer is that there’s no law against it—but as with many wellness choices, the answer is deeper than legality alone.
What the law actually says
There are currently no specific legal restrictions in the UK that prevent children under 18 from taking CBD. That means parents are not breaking the law if they choose to give CBD to their child. However, CBD trade bodies and industry regulators do recommend that CBD products not be sold to individuals under 18. This advice is largely due to the lack of extensive long-term studies in younger age groups—not because CBD has been proven harmful, but because precaution is standard in developing regulatory environments.
So, while children aren’t allowed to buy CBD products themselves, there is no legislation preventing parents from giving CBD to their children.
Why some parents are turning to CBD
Increased levels of stress, anxiety, and emotional challenges are becoming more common among children and teens. As conventional routes such as prescription medications can bring side effects, many parents are seeking gentler, plant-based alternatives.
One parent shared with us: "My teen was struggling so much with anxiety it was difficult to get them to go to school. But a little of the 4% CBD shots every morning and evening really calmed the anxiety and reduced the episodes of anger considerably."
This experience reflects what we hear often: CBD isn’t a cure-all, but it may offer emotional balance and help young people cope better with daily stresses.
Natural and recognised by the body
What makes CBD such a compelling option is how naturally it fits into the body’s existing systems. Phytocannabinoids, like the ones found in CBD oil, are remarkably similar to the endocannabinoids produced by our own bodies. Together, they interact with the endocannabinoid system (ECS)—a network of receptors that helps regulate everything from mood and sleep to appetite and immune response.
A little-known fact: endocannabinoids are actually present in breast milk, which suggests they play an essential role in human development. Scientific reference: A 2004 study published in The European Journal of Pharmacology (Fride, 2004) found that endocannabinoids such as anandamide are present in maternal milk and are critical for initiating the suckling response in newborns.
This connection between CBD and the body’s natural systems may explain why many users—adults and children alike—report feeling calmer, more focused, and less overwhelmed after taking it.
Quality and strength matter
If you're considering giving CBD to your child, it’s essential to choose a high-quality, full-spectrum product from a reputable brand—like the ones we produce here at The Tonic Tribe. Our 4% CBD shots are gentle enough for beginners but still effective for those needing daily support. As always, start with a low dose and observe the effects over time. We also recommend speaking with a trusted healthcare provider, particularly if your child is taking other medications or has a diagnosed condition.
The bigger picture
CBD is not a miracle remedy—but when used thoughtfully and with proper care, it can be a powerful natural tool in your parenting kit. For children dealing with anxiety, emotional regulation challenges, or stress, the right CBD product could provide meaningful relief without the synthetic compounds often found in pharmaceuticals.
As one mum put it, “We were at a loss for what to do—but with a steady routine and a few drops of CBD, things began to shift. My child felt more in control, and so did I.”
As a parent, you want to do what you can to protect your child. And with increased stress levels present in today’s young people, CBD could well be the safe and natural solution. It’s not about handing over a bottle and expecting instant change. It’s about creating space for calm, for emotional regulation and for more resilient daily living. CBD is more than legal - it's natural, and for some families, it’s making a world of difference.