Best Alcohol Alternatives with a Buzz: 7 Reviewed

I’ve spent the last few months diving deep into the world of functional drinks and supplements, seeking true alternatives to a cocktail. If you’re trying to cut back but still crave that sense of calm or social uplift, you know finding options that actually work—that deliver a noticeable “buzz” or “float”—is tough. After extensive testing, I put together this guide reviewing the best alcohol alternatives with a buzz currently on the market, focusing on kava, adaptogens, and wellness aids that deliver results without the hangover.

IMAGE	PRODUCT NAME	AMAZON LINK
	NoMoreDrinks Anti Alcohol Craving Supplement | Liver Detox…	View on Amazon
	Psychedelic Water Easy Alcohol Alternative with Buzz -…	View on Amazon
	Trip Mindful Blend, Lightly Sparkling Adaptogen Seltzer,…	View on Amazon
	Easy Alcohol Alternative with Buzz – Calming Kava Drink…	View on Amazon
	Hiyo Organic Social Tonic – Variety Pack, 12 Pack -…	View on Amazon
	Juni Sparkling Adaptogen Drink with Ashwagandha, Lion’s…	View on Amazon
	Recess Mood Drink Mix Powder | Sampler Pack | 15ct…	View on Amazon

NoMoreDrinks Anti Alcohol Craving Supplement | Liver Detox & Combat Cravings | Energy Support Alcohol Replacement Drink | Organic Milk Thistle Supplement & Dandelion Root & 5HTP | (10) Energy Pills

Unlike the beverage alternatives on this list, NoMoreDrinks takes a comprehensive approach to sobriety and craving management using potent supplements. This isn’t a social “buzz” in the traditional sense; rather, it’s a focused wellness aid designed to reduce the mental desire for alcohol while simultaneously supporting liver health. The blend of Milk Thistle and 5HTP works to help stabilize mood and detoxify the body, making it an excellent resource for anyone serious about long-term reduction.

Key features that stand out:
– Cravings Reduction: Designed to provide quick relief from alcohol cravings.
– Liver Support: Contains Milk Thistle and Dandelion Root for internal cleansing.
– Mood Stabilization: Includes 5HTP to support mental clarity and focus.

• Pros:
• A targeted, pill-based solution for serious alcohol reduction.
• Excellent blend of ingredients for liver detoxification.
• Supports clearer decision-making and mental focus.
• Cons: This product is not a social beverage replacement.
  Best for: Individuals focused on detox, long-term sobriety goals, and combating severe cravings.

Expert Opinion: This is a crucial tool for a recovery arsenal, providing systemic support rather than a temporary euphoric feeling. It tackles the root causes of cravings and supports the body’s recovery process.

Psychedelic Water Easy Alcohol Alternative with Buzz – Calming Kava Drink Mix (14×5.5g) Flavored Kava Powder – Calming Drink Powder Packets – Easy Open Single Serving Drinks – 14 Calm Packets – Grape

Psychedelic Water offers a highly effective and quick-acting buzz thanks to its use of premium noble kava extract, traditionally used as a social stimulant and relaxant in Polynesian culture. This Grape-flavored powder mixes easily with water, providing a noticeable mood lift and deep sense of calm within minutes. It’s an ideal choice when you need the effects fast and want to skip the high-sugar content of many pre-mixed beverages.

Key features that stand out:
– Potent Kava Blend: Contains 250mg of premium 100% noble kava extract.
– Mood Enhancement: Boosted by 75mg of velvet bean extract (mucuna pruriens) for enhanced mood.
– Diet-Friendly: Only 20 calories and low sugar, sweetened with Stevia.

• Pros:
• Delivers a reliable, psychoactive “calm buzz” very quickly.
• Easy-to-use single-serving packets are highly portable.
• Excellent alternative for traditional nighttime winding down.
• Cons: The earthy kava taste can sometimes break through the grape flavor.
  Best for: Users seeking a strong, reliable, and rapid relaxation effect without alcohol or caffeine.
  Expert Opinion: Kava is the closest ingredient that mimics the initial social relaxation of a cocktail. This powder format maximizes absorption and allows users to easily control the dosage for their desired level of calm.

Trip Mindful Blend, Lightly Sparkling Adaptogen Seltzer, Mocktail w/ 120mg Magnesium Citrate with Ashwagandha, Lions Mane & L Theanine, No Added Sugar, Vegan, Original Variety Pack, 12 Oz, 12Pk

Trip Mindful Blend focuses on a sophisticated, subtle “float” achieved through powerful adaptogens and nootropics. This award-winning lightly sparkling mocktail is perfect for social situations where you want calm focus and reduced anxiety, rather than intense euphoria. The combination of Ashwagandha (stress relief), Lion’s Mane (focus), and L-theanine (calm) works together to help you reset and rebalance without fatigue.

Key features that stand out:
– Sophisticated Blend: Uses Lion’s Mane, Ashwagandha, and L-theanine.
– Magnesium Boost: Includes 120mg of Magnesium Citrate for muscle relaxation and mood support.
– Low Calorie: Only 25 calories per can with no added sugars.

• Pros:
• Award-winning flavors make it a delicious social drink.
• Provides sustained calm and focus without drowsiness.
• Suitable for almost all dietary preferences (vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO).
• Cons: The effect is very subtle compared to kava-based products.
  Best for: Socializing, afternoon work focus, or replacing wine during dinner preparation.
  Expert Opinion: Trip excels in creating a truly mindful experience. The best alcohol alternatives with a buzz often focus on immediate effects, but Trip delivers functional calm that makes you feel present and relaxed, minimizing social anxiety effectively.

Easy Alcohol Alternative with Buzz – Calming Kava Drink Mix (14×5.5g) Flavored Kava Powder – Calming Drink Powder Packets – Easy Open Single Serving Drinks – 14 Calm Packets – Blue Raspberry

This Blue Raspberry variant of the kava drink mix delivers the same potent 250mg dose of noble kava extract paired with mucuna pruriens for an effective mood boost. The Blue Raspberry flavor masks the earthiness of the kava exceptionally well, making it a very palatable non-alcoholic option. It remains low calorie (29 calories) and caffeine-free, making it particularly useful as a nightly wind-down ritual.

Key features that stand out:
– Strong Kava Dose: 250mg premium 100% noble kava for reliable effects.
– Enhanced Flavor: Delicious Blue Raspberry flavor is highly enjoyable.
– Nighttime Treat: Caffeine-free, perfect for winding down before bed.

• Pros:
• Rapid onset of calming and mood-lifting effects.
• Flavor profile is satisfying and minimizes kava earthiness.
• Low sugar content sweetened with Stevia.
• Cons: Users sensitive to kava may experience slight stomach upset.
  Best for: Those who prefer sweet flavors and want a reliable, calming effect before bedtime or during peak stress.
  Expert Opinion: For consumers prioritizing flavor masking, the Blue Raspberry stands out. It provides the heavy lifting of kava—a true best alcohol alternative with a buzz—in a highly consumer-friendly format that tastes nostalgic.

Hiyo Organic Social Tonic – Variety Pack, 12 Pack – N.A. Functional Seltzer, Sparkling Water Crafted with Organic Adaptogens, Nootropics & Botanicals

Hiyo markets itself specifically as a “Social Tonic” that delivers “the float”—a calm and uplifting sensation perfect for parties or happy hour. Each can contains a robust 1.7 grams of organic adaptogens and nootropics, including Ashwagandha, L-theanine, and Lion’s Mane, alongside botanicals like Passion Flower and Lemon Balm. This blend creates a clean, happy feeling without the brain fog or hangover associated with alcohol.

Key features that stand out:
– The “Float” Sensation: Proprietary blend designed specifically for social uplift and calm.
– Organic Ingredients: Crafted with certified organic adaptogens and botanicals.
– Great Variety: Variety pack includes four fruit-forward, craveable flavors.

• Pros:
• Focuses specifically on creating a functional social experience.
• The 30-calorie count is minimal for a flavorful drink.
• Excellent blend of ingredients known to reduce anxiety (Ashwagandha, L-Theanine).
• Cons: The 4-5 grams of sugar per can are higher than some zero-sugar options.
  Best for: Replacing cocktails at social events, casual evening relaxation, and happy hours.
  Expert Opinion: Hiyo is highly effective in providing functional, social lubrication. When looking for the best alcohol alternatives with a buzz, Hiyo delivers a mood lift that allows for presence and fun, making it truly competitive against traditional alcoholic drinks.

Juni Sparkling Adaptogen Drink with Ashwagandha, Lion’s Mane & Reishi Mushrooms | Green Tea for Focus, Zero Sugar, 5 Calories, Organic | Non Alcoholic Drinks – Variety Pack 12 pack

Juni differentiates itself by pairing its adaptogen super-blend (Ashwagandha, Lion’s Mane, Reishi) with 30mg of natural caffeine derived from green tea. This combination results in a “Feel Good Fizz” that promotes focus and energy rather than pure calm. It is incredibly clean, boasting only 5 calories and zero sugar, making it an excellent replacement for sodas, coffee, or high-sugar energy drinks when you need a functional lift.

Key features that stand out:
– Functional Lift: Includes 30mg of caffeine for boosted focus.
– Mushroom Blend: Features Lion’s Mane and Reishi mushrooms for cognitive support.
– Ultra Low Calorie: Only 5 calories and zero sugar per can.

• Pros:
• Ideal for midday slump or when maximum focus is required.
• USDA Organic, vegan, and gluten-free.
• Light, crisp flavors in the variety pack (raspberry, lemon, peach, tropical).
• Cons: The inclusion of caffeine means it’s unsuitable for late-night use.
  Best for: Midday energy replacement, working through creative blocks, or morning functional enhancement.
  Expert Opinion: While many adaptogens focus on calming, Juni utilizes Ashwagandha’s ability to normalize stress alongside caffeine for productive energy. It offers a focus-driven buzz, serving as one of the best alcohol alternatives with a buzz when productivity is the goal.

Recess Mood Drink Mix Powder | Sampler Pack | 15ct Box

Recess Mood Powder provides a straightforward, highly effective blend focused purely on relaxation and hydration. Featuring magnesium L-threonate (a highly bioavailable form of magnesium), passion flower, and L-theanine, this blend is designed to promote relaxation and help you unwind quickly. The sampler pack includes flavored and unflavored options, making it versatile for mixing into water, coffee, or tea.

Key features that stand out:
– High Bioavailability Magnesium: Features Magnesium L-threonate for enhanced brain absorption.
– Relaxation Focused: Utilizes passion flower and L-theanine for immediate calm.
– Hydration Boost: Contains electrolytes to aid physical recovery and hydration.

• Pros:
• Versatile powder format allows mixing into any drink.
• Low calorie (10 calories or less) with no added sugar.
• Excellent for pre-sleep relaxation and stress relief.
• Cons: This requires mixing and doesn’t provide the “cocktail” experience of a seltzer.
  Best for: Stress relief, enhancing hydration, and supporting a calm mental state during travel or busy days.
  Expert Opinion: Recess Mood Powder is a powerhouse for pure, functional calm. If you’re looking for a supplement-based relaxation method that works faster than traditional capsules, this mix, with its focus on magnesium and L-theanine, is incredibly effective.

Comparison Short Insights

When evaluating the best alcohol alternatives with a buzz, the effects fall into three main categories: psychoactive calm, subtle social lift, and wellness support.

For the most noticeable psychoactive effect that feels closest to alcohol’s initial relaxation, the kava products (Psychedelic Water’s Grape and Blue Raspberry powders) are the clear winners, delivering a reliable buzz in minutes. However, those prioritizing zero sugar and maximum functionality should look toward Juni, which provides a focused, energized lift thanks to its caffeine content.

If your goal is a subtle, smooth social experience without intoxication, the sparkling adaptogen tonics like Hiyo and Trip are superior. Hiyo offers “the float”—a happy, present feeling—while Trip provides deep, magnesium-supported calm. For anyone dedicated to long-term sobriety and liver detoxification, NoMoreDrinks stands alone as a crucial daily supplement designed to tackle cravings head-on.

The Buzz Breakdown: Who Should Buy What

Choosing the best alcohol alternative with a buzz depends entirely on the desired outcome:

1. For a Quick, Noticeable Buzz (Kava Lovers): Choose Psychedelic Water (Grape or Blue Raspberry). These powders deliver fast, potent, and predictable relaxation, perfect for replacing a strong cocktail.
2. For Anxiety-Free Socializing (The “Float”): Choose Hiyo Organic Social Tonic. Its robust organic adaptogen blend is expertly engineered for social lubrication and feeling happy in your own skin.
3. For Productive Energy and Focus (Daytime Functional): Choose Juni Sparkling Adaptogen Drink. The blend of mushrooms and green tea caffeine offers a clean, productive lift without the jitters.
4. For Consistent Calm and Recovery (Supplement Focus): Choose NoMoreDrinks (for detox and cravings) or Recess Mood Drink Mix Powder (for targeted magnesium relaxation).

Common Questions About best alcohol alternatives with a buzz

What ingredients provide the “buzz” in non-alcoholic alternatives?

The “buzz” generally comes from two main categories of functional ingredients: Kava Kava, which acts as a mild psychoactive relaxant, and Adaptogens like Ashwagandha, Lion’s Mane, and L-theanine. Adaptogens don’t cause intoxication but reduce stress and promote a calm, uplifted state, which is often described as a “float” or clean buzz.

Are kava-based products safe for daily use?

Kava has a long history of safe traditional use. However, it’s always recommended to follow the manufacturer’s dosage guidelines. If you have existing liver conditions or are taking prescription medication, you should consult a healthcare professional before incorporating kava into your daily routine.

How are adaptogen drinks different from CBD drinks?

While both aim for relaxation, they work differently. CBD (cannabidiol) interacts with the endocannabinoid system to reduce physical and mental tension. Adaptogens (like Ashwagandha or Reishi) help the body manage stress by modulating the HPA axis (the body’s stress response system), leading to reduced anxiety and improved mood over time. Many people find the adaptogen “float” to be less sedating than higher doses of CBD.

How quickly can I expect to feel the effects of these non-alcoholic alternatives?

The onset time varies by format and ingredient. Kava powders (like Psychedelic Water) often deliver noticeable effects within 10 to 20 minutes because they are quickly absorbed. Sparkling adaptogen seltzers typically take 20 to 45 minutes to produce the desired subtle calming effect.

Do these best alcohol alternatives with a buzz show up on drug tests?

No. Functional ingredients like kava, adaptogens (Lion’s Mane, Ashwagandha), L-theanine, and 5HTP are not controlled substances and will not trigger a positive result on standard drug screenings, which test for illicit drugs or THC/cannabis metabolites.

What is the primary benefit of choosing a nootropic or functional beverage over traditional non-alcoholic beer?

Traditional non-alcoholic beers often replicate the taste but offer zero functional benefit. Nootropic and functional beverages, the best alcohol alternatives with a buzz, are specifically formulated to deliver a positive mental or emotional effect (calm, focus, energy) that helps replace the social lubrication or stress relief typically sought from alcohol.