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Over the past couple of years, my relationship with alcohol has shifted in a way that feels more aligned with what I want for myself.
I haven’t had hard alcohol since last summer, and I’ve only had beer or wine in select social settings. What I have had? A lot of mocktails—at home, out to eat, at parties—and I’ve loved not waking up with a hangover.
That said, I still want to unwind sometimes, and that’s where functional mocktails and THC-infused mocktails come in.
Unlike traditional non-alcoholic drinks, these beverages offer more than just an alcohol-free experience. Whether designed for relaxation, focus, or a light buzz without booze, they bring something extra to the table.
What Are Functional Mocktails?
Functional mocktails are non-alcoholic drinks crafted with ingredients that offer specific benefits, such as stress relief, enhanced focus, or immune support. Think of them as mocktails with a wellness twist.
Common Functional Ingredients
Adaptogens (e.g., ashwagandha, rhodiola) – Help the body manage stress and promote relaxation.
Nootropics (e.g., L-theanine, ginseng) – Support cognitive function, focus, and mental clarity.
Botanicals & Superfoods (e.g., turmeric, ginger, hibiscus) – Offer anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits.
Electrolytes & Vitamins – Aid hydration and recovery.
Benefits of Functional Mocktails
- Can help with relaxation, focus, or energy depending on the ingredients.
- No alcohol means no hangovers, dehydration, or next-day regrets.
- A great way to make social drinking feel more intentional and mindful.
What Are THC Mocktails?
THC mocktails are non-alcoholic beverages infused with tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the psychoactive compound in cannabis. These drinks provide a mild, controlled buzz without alcohol, making them an appealing option for people who want to unwind in a different way.
Types of THC Used in Mocktails
Hemp-derived Delta-9 THC – Federally legal in small amounts (depending on your state’s regulations).
Cannabis-derived THC – Available in legal cannabis markets, often with a wider range of strengths and effects.
Benefits of THC Mocktails
- Provide a light, social buzz without the negative effects of alcohol.
- Often paired with CBD, which can enhance relaxation and reduce anxiety.
- Allow for a more controlled experience, as dosing is easier to manage.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Start low and slow—especially if you’re new to THC.
- Effects take longer to kick in than smoking or vaping (often 30 minutes to 2 hours).
- Always check the legal status in your state before purchasing.
My Favorite Functional & THC Mocktails
If you’re looking to explore functional and THC mocktails, here are a few of my favorites:
Aplos Chili Margarita – A sparkling, non-alcoholic cocktail crafted with Aplós Arise, mandarin, Persian lime, orange habanero, and sea salt. The Chili Margarita is designed for moments of revelry, infused with adaptogens and nootropics for a naturally stimulating and elevating effect.
Louie Louie Good Time Seltzer – I’ve had several cans of the Blackberry Lemon and the Hibiscus Cherry, and these are insanely good! Each can has 5mg of THC and 5mg of CBD. I’m looking forward to trying their other two flavors, Ginger Cucumber and Satsuma.
Soul CBD Out of Office THC Oil Drops – I’ve gone through two bottles of these; they’re perfect for beginners because they come in various strengths, and you can take them directly or mix them into any drink. I like the “Single,” which is pineapple-flavored and has 1.5MG THC + 15MG CBD for a microdose. Soul CBD also just came out with Out of Office canned THC mocktails, which I will be trying!
Whether you’re looking for a functional mocktail to keep you focused or a THC-infused drink to help you unwind, there are so many options available now that make non-alcoholic drinking feel more intentional and enjoyable. Have you tried any functional or THC mocktails? Let me know your favorites!
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