For many people, a glass of wine or cocktail has long been the default way to unwind at the end of the day. But as the sober curious movement grows, more people are looking for ways to relax in the evening without alcohol.

Alcohol may initially create a sense of calm, but it can also disrupt sleep, increase next-day fatigue, and affect overall wellness. Fortunately, there are now many alternatives designed to help people relax while avoiding the downsides of alcohol. Below are some of the most popular options.

Popular Alternatives to Alcohol for Relaxation

1. Botanical Relaxation Drinks

Botanical supplements combine plant extracts traditionally associated with relaxation. These formulas often include ingredients such as:

• kava
• ashwagandha
• passion flower
• l-theanine
• magnolia bark

One example is Santé Blends, a powdered botanical supplement designed to create a noticeable sense of calm in about 15 minutes. The formula includes noble kava extract, KSM-66 ashwagandha, GABA, and calming botanicals, and many people use it as a ritual to replace a nightly drink. Because it is unflavored and contains no sweeteners, it can be mixed into water, tea, or mocktails depending on personal preference.

👉 Learn more: Santé vs Alcohol 

2. Adaptogenic Beverages

Adaptogens are herbs traditionally used to help the body adapt to stress.

Many modern functional beverages include adaptogenic ingredients such as:

• rhodiola
• reishi mushroom
• schisandra berry

Popular alcohol-free adaptogenic drinks include brands like:

• Kin Euphorics
• Three Spirit
• De Soi

These beverages are often used as evening ritual drinks that mimic the experience of having a cocktail.

3. CBD and THC Drinks

Some alcohol alternatives contain CBD or THC, compounds derived from cannabis. These beverages have grown rapidly in popularity in recent years and are often marketed as alternatives to alcoholic drinks. CBD products typically focus on relaxation without intoxication, while THC beverages may create mild euphoric effects depending on the dosage. However, cannabis-based drinks affect everyone differently and may not be suitable for all situations, particularly if someone wants relaxation without intoxication or impairment. Because of this, some people prefer botanical relaxation supplements that support calm without psychoactive effects.

👉 Learn more: Santé vs THC & CBD

4. Magnesium-Based Drinks

Magnesium is a mineral involved in hundreds of biochemical processes in the body, including nervous system regulation. Some relaxation drink mixes focus primarily on magnesium along with small amounts of calming ingredients such as L-theanine. Because magnesium works gradually in the body, these drinks are often positioned as daily wellness supplements rather than fast-acting relaxation drinks.

5. Herbal Teas

Traditional herbal teas have been used for centuries to promote relaxation. Some of the most popular calming teas include:

• chamomile
• lemon balm
• passion flower
• lavender

While the effects are typically subtle, many people enjoy the ritual of drinking tea before bed as a way to wind down.

6. Kava Beverages

Kava drinks have been consumed in the South Pacific for centuries as a social beverage used to promote relaxation and connection. The calming effects of kava come from compounds called kavalactones, which interact with the brain’s GABA pathway. Research suggests that standardized kava extracts may support relaxation and stress reduction.

You can learn more about the research behind this ingredient in our guide:
Does Kava Actually Help You Relax?

Modern kava-based supplements and drink mixes have become increasingly popular among people exploring alcohol alternatives.

How to Choose the Right Alcohol Alternative

Ask yourself:

• Do I want real relaxation, or just a replacement drink?
• Do I want to feel calmer, or altered?
• Is this for nightly use, social settings, or both?
• Do I care about sleep, next-day clarity, or health impact?

If your goal is calm without compromise — something you can use consistently, socially, and intentionally — functional, non-intoxicating options tend to work best.

Why Alcohol May Not Be the Best Way to Relax

Although alcohol can create an initial feeling of relaxation, research suggests it may also:

• disrupt sleep quality
• increase nighttime awakenings
• affect next-day energy and mood

Because of this, many people are exploring alternatives that support relaxation without the sleep disruption associated with alcohol.

A Modern Botanical Alternative

Some alcohol alternatives focus primarily on flavor, while others focus on functional ingredients designed to support relaxation.

For example, Santé Blends combines noble kava extract, KSM-66 ashwagandha, GABA, and calming botanicals designed to support relaxation within about 15 minutes.

Rather than replacing alcohol with another intoxicating substance, these botanical formulas aim to support the body’s natural relaxation pathways.

The Bottom Line

The way people relax in the evening is changing.

From botanical supplements to adaptogenic beverages, cannabis drinks, and herbal teas, there are now many ways to unwind without relying on alcohol.

For people exploring alcohol alternatives, the key is finding an option that fits their personal ritual and desired level of relaxation.

FAQ

What can I drink instead of alcohol to relax?

Options include herbal teas, botanical supplements, adaptogenic beverages, magnesium drinks, kava-based drinks, and CBD beverages.

What is the healthiest alternative to alcohol?

Many people explore herbal teas, adaptogenic drinks, or botanical supplements that contain ingredients traditionally associated with relaxation.

Does kava help with relaxation?

Kava contains compounds called kavalactones that interact with the brain’s GABA system, which plays an important role in regulating stress and relaxation.

Why are people replacing alcohol?

Many people are reducing alcohol consumption to improve sleep, mental clarity, and overall wellness.