Buzz Without The Booze: Best Options for 2025

Looking non alcoholic drinks that give you a buzz without alcohol? Functional drinks to the rescue!

The world of non-alcoholic functional drinks is growing so fast, and at just the right time. More and more people are looking for alcohol-free options that don’t feel like they’re ‘missing something’. This is particularly true for women over forty, who are dealing with physical and emotional changes as we age, are searching for a buzz without alcohol - alternatives that can still deliver relaxation, focus, or a gentle lift in mood.

Beyond the immediate mood boost, it also turns out that adaptogens and natural functional ingredients are a beneficial modality for treating perimenopause stress, anxiety and even sleep disorders, and are way better for you than that glass of wine.

Modern innovations around functional beverages are opening up new ways to experiment with kava, nootropics, adaptogens, or CBD-infused drinks, and changing the game for mindful drinkers.

I’ve tried dozens of the current options on the market, both pre-made mocktails and liquid ‘spirits’. Here is an overview of some of the ones that worked and my thoughts on a few high-profile options that didn’t. I’m including a CBD seltzer recommendation, but advise only careful consumption as there is a lot we still don’t know about CBD and it’s long-term impacts.

1. Kava Haven

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Kava is my number one, when I’m looking for that Friday night relaxation, and it was introduced to me via a product called Kava Haven. This beautifully balanced kava-based spirit is designed to melt away stress and ease you into a relaxed, happy state. With 150mg of kavalactones per serving, it delivers that signature kava calm—without the muddy, earthy taste that turns some people off. Instead, you get bright lemon and ginger flavors that work beautifully in mocktails! ($53 USD, 750mL)

Check out this Kava Mule Mocktail

2. Sentia

Sentia worked for me when it comes to something ‘relaxing’. It’s one of the most innovative alcohol alternatives out there. Created by neuroscientists, it’s designed to activate GABA receptors (the same ones alcohol triggers) for a relaxed and social feeling—minus the booze. It has a strong ‘aperitif’ flavor, on the bitter side, making it ideal for slow sipping on ice or making a ‘sleepy mommy’ mocktail like I did! (Pricing varies depending on where you’re located - average $50USD)

Check out our Sleepy Mommy Mocktail

3. Dromme Calm

I was sceptical about Dromme Calm but it gets on the list because I did feel a little less wired at bedtime and in the ‘sleep’ state of mind. They say it’s crafted to bring on a sense of deep relaxation without drowsiness, and you could say that it kept it’s promise. It’s a great evening wind-down drink. It’s made with a blend of adaptogens and botanicals like ashwagandha and lemon balm, to gently soothe stress while keeping you clear-headed. It’s got a big ginger bite, so it’s a great option for a mule style mocktail. Add some sparkling water or light ginger beer, and even a non-alcoholic bourbon and you have yourself a Kentucky Mule. (Pricing varies depending on where you’re located - average $50USD)

4. BonBuzz

This was a tingly, kind of enlightening drink. I didn’t feel drunk nor did I feel super calm and relaxed. It’s made with ‘nootropics’ and the buzz is more like a social awakening, feeling happier and more ready to dance to the music or initiate a conversation. As someone who regularly takes ADHD medication, this one felt similar to the clarity you get from something like that. I loved it! ($40, bonbuz.com)

5. Curious Elixirs

Curious Elixers have been around for almost a decade (pretty unbelievable!) and have refined their flavours and functional blends to six or seven core products. Infused with active ingredients and functional herbs, each bottle has a unique and delicious faux cocktail flavour but a similar effect of creating a calming, relaxed sensation. I loved their ‘dark and stormy’ style option and although the effects were mild, it was pleasant and delivered what it promised.

6. Hiyo

I felt nothing. I had really high hopes for this, but it really fell flat. They advertise that you’re floating on a hiyo cloud or something, but I really just felt like it was a nice light seltzer. On the second can, I did feel a little more relaxed but I was watching a movie and it could have just been a placebo effect. They’re easy to find at your grocery store (I found mine in the Organics section at Walgreens) but also a little pricey at almost $4 a can. I wouldn’t buy it again unless I wanted something light and fresh for an outdoor event or function.

**Update that I recently discovered that the company keeps the functional dosage fairly low so that someone can be at a social event and have more than one drink without going over their daily recommended limit. Smart and definitely a reason to revisit Hiyo!

7. Kin Euphorics

Talking about placebo effect, Kin Euphorics is one big placebo. I’ve never felt anything but hydrated after drinking even multiple cans of this fun brand. It’s yummy and the branding is amazing, but it really is just a placebo for a drink, and there is nothing wrong with that. It’s a perfect option if you’re out for the night and need a cool drink in hand, but you won’t suddenly feel calm and ready to unwind.

8. DeSoi

Katy Perry’s canned mocktails are absolutely delicious and elevated but they miss the mark on the functional aspect. I adore their Tres Rose and Purple Lune but if you’re expecting to feel something immediately from the functional ingredients, you might not. There’s lion’s mane and reishi mushroom along with ashwaghanda, but I don’t think there is enough quantity in one can to make more than fractional improvements to your psyche and mood in the moment. They are very delicious though so I rotate these often when I’m on vacation or on the weekends! (Prices vary through various online retailers)

9. Daytrip Sparkling Water

I only drink CBD occasionally and I consider it like bringing out ‘the big guns’. Most of the time kava or other adaptogens work just fine, but if you’re a wired ADHD entrepreneur like me, you understand sometimes you need something to push you gently onto the couch for the evening. Since wine isn’t an option anymore, a low-voltage CBD seltzer is my jam.

CBD sparkling waters are a dime a dozen, but Daytrip is one of the best I’ve had and it’s low sugar to boot - a great option for women watching their weight in perimenopause. With a crisp, clean taste and just the right amount of CBD to take the edge off (20mg), it’s an easy swap for a light cocktail when you need to seriously wind down. The flavors are bright and refreshing—think citrus, berry, and tropical vibes. They also. have gummies (just saying, wink wink).

Check out this Tart Cherry CBD Mocktail with Daytrip

Conclusion

Regardless of your reason, the occasion or your tastebuds, there are lots of options out there for feeling a buzz without the booze and finding some relaxation. It’s your story, you write the rules!

Cheers!