With the trend of non-alcoholic functional drinks on the rise, I feel like I am constantly discovering new drink types. Non-alcoholic kava drinks first came on my radar this year, and I found out that it is actually a drink that people in Fiji and Vanuatu islands have been enjoying for centuries.
Kava is a natural herb derived from the piper methysticum plant and widely known for its potent relaxing qualities. The roots are grounded into a pulp and then added to cold water. It is meant to help calm the mind and soothe any anxiety or stress.
This natural herb is known to be non-addictive, making non-alcoholic kava drinks a safe and enjoyable choice without the risk of addiction. However, I must mention that there are some side effects to kava, which includes headache, dizziness, and diarrhea, so do your research before drinking any of these kava drinks.
Also Read: 12 Non-Alcoholic Drinks with Ashwagandha That Taste Amazing
Roundup Of The Best Non Alcoholic Kava Drinks
Psychedelic Water
This is probably the most famous kava non-alcoholic brand right now. Despite the name, Psychedelic Water does not make you hallucinate or get high.
It is made with kava and other FDA-compliant ingredients such as damiana and green tea extract, and it is supposed to have relaxation-inducing properties and natural calming effects. I have drank a few cans of Psychedelic Water, but so far, I can’t say for sure that I felt the effects.
There are several flavors to choose from, including Prickly Pear, Hibiscus + Lime, Oolong + Orange Blossom, and Blackberry + Yuzu. My favorite flavor is the Hibiscus + Lime.
Order it online directly from Psychedelic Water (within the United States).
Leilo “Calm in a Can”
Leilo was created after the founder went on a trip to Fiji in 2018 and was introduced to kava by a local. It features kava and the adaptogen L-Theanine to promote relaxation and mental focus.
Since kava is made of 18 different kavalactones, each providing a different relaxation effect, Leilo uses different kavalactones for each product – which is why some are made for daytime drinking, while others are better for nighttime drinking or as a sleep aid.
Order it online directly from Leilo (within the United States).
Slide Kava
I like Slide Kava because it reminds me of flavored sparkling water, except infused with kava and adaptogens. Some of the adaptogens include serotonin-boosting 5-HTP, anxiety-relieving hibiscus flower, rejuvenating Holy Basil, and uplifting B-Vitamins.
This mix of ingredients is supposed to help elevate your mood, sharpen focus, and transport you to a state of pure bliss.
Order it online from non-alcoholic drinks retailer Proof No More (within the United States).
Body iQ Bliss With Kava
Body iQ Bliss With Kava is a mix of sparkling tea and 150mg of kava in each can. I like that the ingredients are all natural, and there is no caffeine, sugar, artificial flavors, or preservatives. Each can also contains vitamins such as B3, B6, B12, D3, C, K, and Zinc.
They come in three flavors – Grapefruit Mint Basil, Pear Ginger, and Pomegranate Mix Berries.
Order it online from Amazon (within the United States).
What Should You Not Mix Kava With?
As with any natural herb, kava might have side effects for some people with certain conditions. You should not mix kava with anticonvulsants, alcohol, anxiety medication, diuretics, Phenothiazine medications, Levodopa, and any medications that are metabolized by the liver.
In general, the recommendation is to consume no more than 1 can of kava drink a day. While there have been concerns that overdosing on kava may cause liver damage, there have not have conclusive studies to prove that kava is toxic to the liver.
Also Read: 11 Sparkling Water With Adaptogens You Have To Try