Not every buzz has to come from alcohol. More people are reaching for plant-based drinks that help them relax, lift their mood, or make social time more enjoyable. People want non alcoholic drinks that give you a buzz feeling without hangover, dehydration, or sluggish mornings.
Many of these options are made with herbs and roots that contain natural compounds to support calm, focus, or social ease. Whether you're cutting back or sober curious, these drinks offer a new way to unwind and feel good.
Centuries of use show us there are other ways to unwind than drinking alcohol. But which is best? South Pacific kava drinks or invigorating yerba mate? Kava or kratom? Understanding their unique effects helps you blend their ancient traditions with modern-day use. Today, modern formulations and innovative recipes give you accessible and enjoyable options.
If you're cutting back on alcohol or simply want to try something new, there’s a wide range of options to explore. In this guide, we’ll cover:
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Why people choose non-alcoholic drinks for a buzz
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How these functional beverages work
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Popular drink types you can try at home or on the go
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Real Botanicals’ own plant-based functional drink lineup
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Tips for enjoying them safely and responsibly
Let’s start with why so many people are swapping cocktails for botanicals.
Why Choose a Non-Alcoholic Buzz?
Today, we'll go over some time-tested non-alcoholic drinks that give you a buzz. More people are turning to these to enjoy socializing, unwind after a long day, or for uplifted mood shifts without the downsides of alcohol. It's a trending shift from health-sapping fun to wellness-based downtime, and we're here for it. It’s out with the booze and in with the buzz that actually feels good.
Alcohol can be dehydrating, disrupt sleep, and negatively impact mood. Functional non-alcoholic beverages offer a different experience. Depending on the botanical and how it’s used, you might feel a boost, a calming effect, or even a gentle euphoria.
There’s also the social factor. In many cultures, drinks are about connection, not intoxication. Two good examples are kava circles in the South Pacific and tea gatherings in Asia. Used mindfully, beverages can bring people together in meaningful ways. (No alcohol needed!)
And for those exploring a sober-curious lifestyle, these drinks provide an appealing middle ground. You don't have to give up the ritual of enjoying a drink with friends. But some botanical options may offer perks like energy or focus, contributing to your experience in a more meaningful way.
Common Question: What’s the Best Kratom for Energy and Focus?
Next, we’ll explore how these functional beverages work and what gives them their unique effects.
How Do Buzz-Inducing Drinks Work?
The “buzz” from non-alcoholic functional beverages comes from naturally occurring compounds. These compounds in plants, herbs, or adaptogens interact with the body in specific ways. Some may support relaxation. Others may enhance mood. Some options trend toward increased alertness without intoxication.
How they work comes down to the active ingredients. Here are a few examples:
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Adaptogens like ashwagandha may help the body adapt to stress by modulating the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis. See more info about using ashwagandha and kava together.
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Nootropics like L-Theanine may enhance focus and mental clarity.
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Kava contains active compounds called kavalactones, which can promote a sense of calm and sociability.
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Kratom contains alkaloids like mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, which may provide mood-lifting or energizing effects depending on strain and serving size.
Kava and kratom are often compared or used in tandem. Our guide on kava vs kratom explains their unique effects and traditions.
For more information:
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NIH Kava Pharmacology Review: Details how kavalactones interact with the brain to promote relaxation.
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NIH Kratom Pharmacology Review: Explores how kratom’s alkaloids can influence energy and mood.
Many herbal drink enthusiasts also enjoy a similar buzz to that of coffee. Herbal stimulants like yerba mate may offer a cleaner caffeine energy. Certain types of kratom also appeal to these users – see our guide to kratom and coffee together.
Remember that regardless of the botanicals you choose, effects can vary. This is because body physiology and response differ from person to person. Some botanicals are also dose-dependent, meaning their effects may change with the amount you use.
Quick Guide: Match Your Mood to the Drink
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Kava – Relaxing, calming, sociable
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Kratom – Mood-lifting or energizing support (depending on strain)
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Yerba Mate – Clean energy, mental alertness
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Kombucha with Adaptogens – Gentle mood support, stress relief
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CBD Drinks – Calming, tension-reducing, non-intoxicating
Popular Non-Alcoholic Drinks That Give You a Buzz
There’s a wide range of non-alcoholic drinks that give you a buzz, each offering its own flavor, cultural background, and effect profile. Here are some of the most popular options worth exploring:
Kava Drinks
A traditional South Pacific beverage made from the root of the Piper methysticum plant. Known for promoting calm focus and relaxation, kava is often enjoyed socially. Take a look at our five best kava drink recipes of 2025 here!
For a deep dive into its history and use, the FAO report on kava provides valuable cultural insight.
Kratom Teas & Shots
Made from the leaves of the Mitragyna speciosa tree, kratom can offer mood enhancement or an energizing lift depending on the strain. These combo drinks are designed for convenience and balanced effects.
Recommended Read: Kratom Hangover Guide: Does Kratom Give You a Hangover?
Yerba Mate
A South American herbal tea rich in caffeine, theobromine, and antioxidants. It delivers clean, sustained energy without the jitters often associated with coffee.
Kombucha with Adaptogens
Fermented tea infused with herbs like ginseng, tulsi, or ashwagandha. It supports gut health and may offer gentle mood support.
CBD-Infused Drinks
Beverages containing cannabidiol (CBD) from hemp are known for promoting relaxation without intoxication.
These options can be enjoyed on their own or incorporated into creative mocktail recipes for added flavor and flair.
Real Botanicals’ Functional Drinks
At Real Botanicals, we focus on creating functional non-alcoholic drinks—like our fan-favorite kratom kava drinks. You deserve trustworthy, plant-based alternatives that are enjoyable, affordable, and lab-proven clean. We aim to deliver a satisfying buzz through pure, plant-based ingredients. We never use synthetic additives in our products.
Our lineup includes:
Kava Drinks and Shots
The best kava drinks are made with high-quality noble kava. This provides a smoother, calming lift that supports social connection and mindful relaxation. Because kava shots work well in combination with kratom’s effects, our shots include both botanicals. (See below.)
Check out our local guide to find kava drinks near you!
Kava + Kratom Blends
These blends combine the best of kava and kratom in one balanced drink. This unites the highest potential of each: kava calm + kratom lift. The resulting synergy is often described as mood-lifting, energizing, and a unique, pleasant "buzz". Available in easy, ready-to-drink formats for convenience without compromise.
Every product is crafted with transparency and care. Following strict quality standards from sourcing to packaging means a cleaner experience for you. Everything is labeled well so there's no mystery or confusion about dosing. We want you to know exactly what’s in your drink and why it works.
At Real Botanicals, we craft kava + kratom beverages that are effective and offer complete product transparency. We believe in plant-based formulas, clear labeling, and sourcing you can trust. If you’re ready to explore,
Shop Kratom & Kava Shots and discover a smarter way to sip!
How to Enjoy These Drinks Safely
While non-alcoholic drinks that give you a buzz can be a great alternative to alcohol, it’s important to enjoy them mindfully.
Start with a Low Serving
Everyone reacts differently to functional ingredients like kava, kratom, or adaptogens. Begin with a smaller serving and wait to see how your body responds before having more.
Avoid Mixing with Alcohol
It's not recommended to mix alcohol with some botanicals, like kratom. Combining functional drinks with alcohol can blur effects. It may also increase the risk of unpleasant interactions.
Read more about Kava Hangover: What It Is and How to Avoid It.
Know Your Ingredients
Read labels carefully, especially regarding ingredients and careful dosing. Choose products without unnecessary additives or artificial stimulants. Look for clear kavalactone/alkaloid content when buying kava or kratom beverages.
Be Aware of Local Laws
Kratom legality varies by state and city. Check your area’s regulations before buying or traveling with it.
Consider Your Schedule
Some drinks are better for winding down in the evening, while others are energizing and best enjoyed earlier in the day.
By following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of functional beverages while staying in control of your experience.
Final Thoughts: Sip Smart, Feel Good
Exploring non-alcoholic drinks that give you a buzz can be a fun way to try something new. Just be mindful of how much you drink, and take a moment to learn about the active ingredients. By understanding how they work and choosing products made with care, you can find the perfect fit for your lifestyle.
There’s a wide range to choose from, including calming herbal blends and energizing botanical infusions. Kava, kratom, yerba mate, kombucha with adaptogens, and CBD-infused drinks each bring their own personality to the table. Some drinks can lift your mood or make social time more enjoyable. Others are better for winding down at the end of the day.
You might find that the effects, flavors, and cultural traditions offer a more meaningful experience than alcohol. So raise your glass, and enjoy your buzz the mindful way.
If you’d like to learn more about our mission, sourcing practices, and what makes us different, visit About Real Botanicals.
Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. Not medical advice.