Top 5 NA Drinks That Give You A Buzz: A Review

Ever wish you could enjoy a lively evening without the alcohol? Many people seek that satisfying, slightly buzzed feeling without the hangover or the morning regret. It’s a common wish, especially when you want to stay sharp but still feel social and relaxed.

Finding non-alcoholic drinks that actually deliver a pleasant lift can feel like a treasure hunt. You try fancy sodas, but they just taste sweet. You grab herbal teas, but they leave you feeling flat. The real challenge is cutting through the marketing noise to find beverages that genuinely offer a subtle, mood-lifting effect.

This guide is here to crack that code for you. We’ve explored the market to bring you the best non-alcoholic options that provide that gentle, enjoyable buzz you are looking for. Get ready to discover surprising ingredients and innovative drinks that fit your lifestyle.

Top Non Alcoholic Drinks That Give You A Buzz Recommendations

No. 1
TRIP Lightly Sparkling Adaptogen Seltzer, Non-Alcoholic Mocktail with Magnesium, Ashwagandha, Lions Mane & L Theanine, No Added Sugar, Vegan, Original Variety Pack, 12 Oz, 12Pk
  • REFRESHING LIGHTLY SPARKLING ADAPTOGEN DRINK: Experience a refreshingly sophisticated sparkling mocktail beverage made with a blend of carefully selected botanicals and adaptogens, including Lion's Mane, Ashwagandha, and L-theanine. Perfectly balanced to offer a unique flavor profile, TRIP is sociable and can be enjoyed anytime, solo as an alcohol alternative or mixed into cocktails!
  • NATURALLY INFUSED WITH BOTANICALS: Trip Mindful Blend is crafted with nature's finest ingredients, combining magnesium drink benefits with carefully selected botanicals and adaptogens. These thoughtfully chosen ingredients create a delicious non-alcoholic beverage designed to support your body's natural rhythms, helping you reset, rebalance, and recalibrate*. Enjoy this drink to stay refreshed and productive without the usual drawbacks of fatigue or loss of focus*.
  • LOW CALORIE, NO ADDED SUGAR: With only 25 calories per can and no added sugars, Trip Mindful Blend offers a guilt-free indulgence. This lightly sparkling, non-alcoholic drink mocktails option (0% ABV) is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious beverage without compromising their dietary goals.
  • SUITABLE FOR VARIOUS DIETARY PREFERENCES: Made in America, Trip Mindful Blend is gluten free, palm oil free, vegan, and non GMO adaptogen soda, making it suitable for a variety of dietary lifestyles. Enjoy this sparkling drink knowing it's made with care and attention to the ingredients you value most.
  • GREAT TASTING AWARD-WINNING FLAVORS: Winner of the Great Taste Award three years in a row, Trip Mindful Blend seltzer offers a satisfying and sophisticated flavor experience. Enjoy a variety of refreshing options, including Melon Cucumber, Raspberry Blossom, Elderflower Mint, and Peach Ginger. Each flavor is carefully crafted with botanical extracts and designed to delight your taste buds with every sip, offering a unique and memorable drinking experience.
No. 2
Recess Mood Magnesium & Adaptogen Drink, Relaxation Beverage, 12 Ounce (Variety Pack, 12 Pack)
  • RELAX AND UNWIND: A magnesium and adaptogen-infused sparkling water to help you unwind.
  • TRY EVERY FLAVOR: The 12-pack sampler features 3 of each flavor: Strawberry Rose, Raspberry Lemon, Lime Citrus, and Grapefruit Tangerine. Each flavor is brewed with real ingredients like dried strawberries and raspberries.
  • FUNCTIONAL INGREDIENTS: Featuring magnesium L-threonate, a new form of magnesium for the brain, with L-theanine and lemon balm.
  • LOW CAL: Zero added sugar, no fake stuff. Only 20 calories and 4g or less of sugar from fruit juice.
  • TAKE A RECESS: When you’re winding down in the evening or whenever you need a moment to relax.
No. 3
Recess Mood Powder, Magnesium L-Threonate Blend with Passion Flower, L-Theanine, Electrolytes, Magnesium Calm Support Powder Supplement -Sampler Pack, Pack of 15
  • RELAX WITH RECESS MOOD POWDER: Stressed out and short on time? Take a Recess on-the-go and add some calm to whatever you're drinking.
  • TRY EVERY FLAVOR: This 15ct sampler box includes 5 stick packs of each of our three delicious flavors: gradient berry and lemon citrus for your water or smoothie, and unflavored for your coffee, tea or whatever you're drinking.
  • FUNCTIONAL INGREDIENTS: A three-in-one powder blend to promote relaxation & help you unwind with magnesium L-threonate, adaptogens & electrolytes.
  • MORE CALM, BALANCE & HYDRATION: Now featuring 50% DV of magnesium per serving, with magnesium L-threonate, a more bioavailable form of magnesium for the brain, passion flower and L-theanine to calm the mind, and electrolytes for hydration.
  • LOW CAL: 10 calories or less per serving and no added sugar.
No. 4
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
  • Feel Good Fizz - Nourish your mind and body with a refreshing Juni adaptogen drink. A sparkling beverage infused with powerful adaptogens, nootropics and 30mg of natural caffeine from green tea to help you crush goals, stay focused, and feel amazing
  • Sugar Free - Ditch the guilt and the sugar crash. With just 5 calories per can, a Juni nootropic drink is a delicious alternative for diet soda, energy drinks, coffee, and makes a great non alcoholic drink or mocktail for health-conscious individuals
  • Adaptogenic Super-Blend - Dive into a bubbly fusion of ashwagandha, reishi mushroom, lion’s mane, acerola cherry, and green tea. Juni is an invigorating drink crafted to renew your energy, calm your mind, and support overall well-being
  • Flavor Fiesta Variety Pack - Including 12x 12oz cans of sparkling adaptogen mushroom drinks; 3 raspberry, 3 lemon, 3 peach & 3 tropical, find your flavor and satisfy your cravings. Plus, the mood drinks are USDA Organic, vegan, gluten-free & non-GMO
  • Discover A Healthier, Happier You - Created by wellness icons Jay Shetty, and his wife Radhi Devlukia-Shetty, Juni sparkling drinks are more than just a beverage; they’re a lifestyle choice. Experience the optimal blend of taste & functional benefits
No. 5
Moment Botanical Soda Soft Drink (Shark Tank) - SPARKLING Drinks | Fruity Fun | L-Theanine & Ashwagandha for Calm & Clarity | 0 Added Sugar 0 Caffeine | 12-pack
  • DITCH THE SUGAR & ENJOY GOOD-FOR-YOU INGREDIENTS: Moment adaptogen drink has zero added sugar, zero caffeine, and only between 15 and 20 calories per can. It’s made with real fruits and immunity-boosting botanicals like antioxidant-packed hibiscus and fresh summer mint to support gut health and improve overall wellness.
  • ADAPTOGENIC DRINK WITH ASHWAGANDHA & L-THEANINE: Packed with mood-boosting adaptogens that have been used for thousand of years to relieve stress and enhance mental clarity. The benefits of adaptogens build up overtime, have it daily for a few weeks to experience the full impact.
  • GREAT DRINK: Swap out traditional drinks for daily adaptogens to feel healthier, happier, and more mindful. Moment is perfect for creating delicious and functional mocktails—enjoy all the fun, without the bloating or next-day sluggishness.
  • ENJOY ANYTIME, ANYWHERE: Daily dose of adaptogens & nootropics balances cortisol levels and boosts brain function. Perfect to enjoy during the day for a fresh mind and less stress, in the afternoon to beat the slump, post-workout to re-hydrate, or in the evening to unwind and prepare for restful sleep.
  • ENJOY EXOTIC FLAVORS: We get it - life can get boring. Our flavors are inspired from all over the world. Simple and natural (like life should be). This Variety Pack includes includes Strawberry Rose, Mango Glow, Blackberry Lavender.
No. 6
TRIP Lightly Sparkling Adaptogen Seltzer, Non-Alcoholic Mocktail with Magnesium, Ashwagandha, Lions Mane & L Theanine, No Added Sugar, Vegan, Citrus Berry Variety Pack, 12 Oz, 12Pk
  • REFRESHING LIGHTLY SPARKLING ADAPTOGEN DRINK: Experience a refreshingly sophisticated sparkling drink made with a blend of carefully selected botanicals, including Lion's Mane, Ashwagandha, and L-theanine. Perfectly balanced to offer a unique flavor profile, TRIP is sociable and can be enjoyed anytime, solo as an alcohol alternative, or mixed into cocktails!
  • NATURALLY INFUSED WITH BOTANICALS: Trip Mindful Blend is crafted with nature's finest ingredients, combining magnesium drink benefits with carefully selected botanicals and adaptogens. These thoughtfully chosen ingredients create a delicious non-alcoholic beverage designed to support your body's natural rhythms, helping you reset, rebalance, and recalibrate*. Enjoy this drink to stay refreshed and productive without the usual drawbacks of fatigue or loss of focus*.
  • LOW CALORIE, NO ADDED SUGAR: With only 25 calories per can and no added sugars, Trip Mindful Blend offers a guilt-free indulgence. This lightly sparkling, non-alcoholic drinks mocktails option (0% ABV) is perfect for those who want to enjoy a delicious beverage without compromising their dietary goals.
  • SUITABLE FOR VARIOUS DIETARY PREFERENCES: Made in America, Trip Mindful Blend is gluten free, palm oil free, vegan, and non GMO adaptogen soda, making it suitable for a variety of dietary lifestyles. Enjoy this sparkling drink knowing it's made with care and attention to the ingredients you value most.
  • GREAT TASTING FLAVORS: Trip drinks seltzer offers a satisfying and sophisticated flavor experience. Enjoy a variety of refreshing options of Cherry Lemon, Wild Strawberry, Raspberry Blossom and Blood Orange. Each magnesium drink flavor is carefully crafted with botanical extracts and designed to delight your taste buds with every sip, offering a unique and memorable drinking experience.
No. 7
Huzzy Smart Sips Non Alcoholic Drinks - Berry Banger Margarita Inspired Beverage, Alcohol Free Functional Cocktails - Low Calorie, Low Carb, No Refined Sugar, Caffeine & Artificial Colors - 4 Pack
  • Sweet and Tart Delight: Enjoy a bright burst of flavors with our non alcoholic drinks with a buzz. A twist on the traditional cocktail, it’s a sweet and tart margarita functional cocktail that supports your wellness while satisfying your taste buds.
  • Wellness Meets Flavor: Our non alcoholic beverages are loaded with botanicals, adaptogens, and antioxidants that support liver and gut wellness. Enjoy a relaxing drink that supports digestion and essential body functions.
  • Have a Feel-Good Buzz: Our nonalcoholic drink gives you the vibe without the guilt. Each can delivers a smooth, feel-good buzz without alcohol, providing you with a mindful way to unwind, night in and night out.
  • Low Calorie & No Refined Sugar: With only 50 calories per can and 0 refined sugar, you can indulge in our non alcoholic cocktail drinks without the sugar spike and align with your lifestyle.
  • Smart Sips, Smart Choice: Huzzy is about wellness and enjoyment at the same time. We craft refreshing drinks that are good for your body and social life.
No. 8
Recess Zero Proof Craft Mocktails, Alcohol Free Drinks, With Adaptogens, Non-Alcoholic Beverage Replacement, Mixer, Celebration, Party, (Happy Hour Sampler, 12oz, Pack of 12)
  • PERFECT ALCOHOL-FREE ALTERNATIVE: Recess Mocktails are the perfect alcohol alternative to enjoy while you’re socializing or unwinding at the end of the day.
  • NO HANGOVER: The 12-pack Happy Hour Sampler has 3 of each flavor: Classic “Cosmo”, Island “Spritz,” Lime "Margarita,” and Grapefruit "Paloma.”
  • NEW BOLDER TASTE: Now with a new and improved formula. Hand-crafted with real fruit by our in-house mixologist. They’re lightly sparkling drinks without the alcohol or high sugar content of traditional cocktails.
  • MOCKTAIL WITH BENEFITS: Our mocktails are infused with uplifting guayusa and balancing adaptogens to keep you in the moment while socializing or unwinding at the end of the day.
  • LOW CAL: Only 35 calories or less and 7g of sugar or less. Made with real ingredients.

The Buzz Without the Booze: Your Guide to Non-Alcoholic Drinks with a Kick

More people are looking for ways to enjoy social drinks without the alcohol. These special non-alcoholic (NA) drinks offer a pleasant feeling, sometimes called a “buzz,” using different ingredients. This guide helps you choose the best ones for you.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping, look closely at what makes these drinks unique. These features tell you what kind of experience to expect.

1. The Source of the “Buzz’
  • Adaptogens: These are natural substances, like mushrooms or herbs (such as Ashwagandha or Rhodiola), that your body uses to handle stress. They often provide a calm, focused feeling.
  • Nootropics: These ingredients, like L-Theanine (found in green tea), are known to boost brain function, leading to better focus or a gentle lift.
  • Botanicals: Certain plant extracts offer a subtle shift in mood or relaxation without intoxication.
  • Low-Dose THC/CBD (Where Legal): Some specialized drinks contain tiny amounts of cannabis compounds for relaxation. Always check local laws!
2. Flavor Profile and Complexity

Since you are missing alcohol’s bite, the flavor needs to be exciting. Good NA “buzz” drinks taste complex, not just like sugary soda. Look for notes of bitters, spices, or strong fruit flavors.

3. Sugar and Calorie Content

Many NA drinks hide a lot of sugar. If you want a clean buzz, choose options labeled “low sugar” or “zero sugar.” High sugar content can lead to a crash later, which ruins the good feeling.

Important Ingredients to Understand

Understanding what goes into the can helps you make smart choices. Ingredients are the building blocks of your experience.

  • Natural vs. Artificial: Always prefer drinks made with natural fruit juices and real extracts over artificial flavors and colors. Natural ingredients usually lead to a smoother feeling.
  • Functional Additives: Check for added vitamins (like B vitamins) or electrolytes, which support overall energy and hydration.
  • Preservatives: Fewer preservatives are better. Look for short ingredient lists.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

The quality of the drink directly affects how you feel and how much you enjoy it.

What Improves Quality (Better Buzz/Taste):
  • Slow Infusion: Ingredients that are slowly steeped or infused often release their beneficial compounds better, creating a more noticeable effect.
  • Balanced pH: Drinks that balance acidity (tartness) with sweetness feel more sophisticated and less syrupy.
  • Third-Party Testing: If the drink uses CBD or THC, look for brands that share lab results proving the amount of active ingredients.
What Reduces Quality (Worse Buzz/Taste):
  • Over-Sweetening: Too much sugar masks subtle flavors and can cause energy spikes and drops.
  • Harsh Aftertaste: Some adaptogens can leave a slightly bitter or earthy aftertaste. High-quality brands work hard to mask this.
  • Vague Labeling: If a company doesn’t clearly list the amounts of adaptogens or nootropics, the product might not work as advertised.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about when and why you need this drink. This helps you pick the right type of buzz.

Relaxation and Socializing:

If you want to feel relaxed at a dinner party or unwind after work, choose drinks featuring L-Theanine or calming adaptogens. These promote easy conversation without drowsiness.

Focus and Productivity:

For a mid-day slump, look for drinks that focus on nootropics. These offer mental clarity, making them great substitutes for that second cup of coffee.

The Ritual:

Many people miss the ritual of pouring a cocktail. Choose canned or bottled drinks that look sophisticated. A good mouthfeel (texture) and a beautiful garnish elevate the whole experience.


10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Do these drinks actually make you feel anything?

A: Yes, they can. They provide a “buzz” through non-alcoholic means, usually relaxation, focus, or mild energy, depending on the herbs and compounds used.

Q: Are “non-alcoholic buzz” drinks legal everywhere?

A: Most are legal, but if a drink contains CBD or THC, you must check your local state or country laws first.

Q: How long does the feeling from these drinks last?

A: The feeling is usually mild and short-lived, often lasting one to three hours. It is not the same as alcohol intoxication.

Q: Can I drink many of these in one evening?

A: You can, but watch the ingredients. Drinking too many can lead to consuming too much caffeine or too many adaptogens, which might cause jitters or stomach upset.

Q: What is the difference between these and energy drinks?

A: Energy drinks rely mostly on high sugar and caffeine for a fast spike. These buzz drinks use functional ingredients for a calmer, more sustained lift or relaxation.

Q: Are adaptogens safe for daily use?

A: Most adaptogens are generally safe for daily use, but it is wise to take breaks. If you have a health condition, talk to your doctor first.

Q: Do these drinks taste like medicine?

A: High-quality brands work hard to hide earthy or bitter tastes using strong fruit and spice flavors. Lower-quality ones might taste slightly medicinal.

Q: Can I mix these with regular alcohol?

A: It is not recommended. Mixing them can confuse the effects of the functional ingredients and you might not know how much you are consuming overall.

Q: How fast will I feel the effect?

A: You usually start feeling the subtle effects within 15 to 45 minutes after drinking, similar to drinking strong tea.

Q: Are these suitable for people who are pregnant or breastfeeding?

A: No. Because these contain herbs and functional extracts, pregnant or breastfeeding individuals should avoid them unless a doctor specifically approves them.