by Kristen Bear, @Creative Sobriety

It’s clear to me that the future of the non-alcoholic beverage space lies in functional beverages. More and more people are choosing healthier alternatives that offer some utility and do something positive for the body and mind. 

It’s not just that people are removing alcohol, they are opting-in on wellness-positive ingredients.

Think of adaptogens as a class of herbs that function as body balancers, ingredients that can help manage stress, deal with fatigue, reduce anxiety, and offer a number of other desirable functions. 

Mother Nature really does have an answer for everything. Why not use her infinite wisdom in our social tonics and nightcaps? 

Here are some highlights of the adaptogenic universe that you’ll find in Curious Elixirs.  

South African Kanna (Curious No. 9)

A flowering succulent known for its euphoric and relaxing effects, South African Kanna is often dubbed, “Nature’s MDMA,” Kanna has been said to improve mental focus, relieve stress and anxiety, and even be effective at treating chronic pain. Curious Elixir No. 9 is a great way to get acquainted with Kanna and get a feel for what the hype is all about. A subtle blend of rose, California Poppy, key lime, and French oak creates a delicate and sophisticated sip that is truly as functional as it is delicious. 

Functional Mushrooms (Curious No. 8)

Reishi, Lion’s Mane, Chaga…these fabulous fungi are also showing up in non-alcoholic spirits like Curious No. 8, a black and blue amaro. You can do a deep dive here, and see why these powerful adaptogens are on the tip of everyone’s tongue. These magical mushrooms offer immunity support, aid in digestion, and are stacked with antioxidant properties. Lion’s Mane is high in thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin, potentially stimulating cell growth in the brain. Smart move.  

Elderflower (Curious No. 7)

It’s no coincidence that Curious No. 7 is so “pretty.” Elderflower is rich in antioxidants that can help protect against premature aging. With compounds that may strengthen your immune system and anti-inflammatory properties, it’s no wonder that people are looking for this taskmaster in their beverages. 

Lemon Balm (Curious No. 6) 

Actually known to relieve pain, lemon balm may also aid in calming anxiety and improving sleep. Lemon balm is a natural antibacterial herb that contains eugenol, known to ease muscle spasms and promote rest. (Hence, the “Coconut Pineapple Painkiller.”) 

Shatavari - “Queen of Ayurvedic herbs” (Curious No. 5)

Sip Curious No. 5 for hormonal balance and mood elevation from an aphrodisiac that has been used for hundreds of years, shatavari root. She’s the “Queen” for good reason. Female hormonal balance is essential for overall health and this powerful herb can also support thyroid function. Shatavari may help to balance energy levels and regulate metabolism, leveling out appetite and increasing vitality.

American Ginseng (Curious No. 4)

Native Americans have used this root as a stimulant and studies show American Ginseng helping the body manage various types of stress. Curious No. 4 blends the exotic citrus of Sicilian blood orange with green mandarin and American ginseng to give you that extra lift. 

Ashwagandha - “King of Herbs” (Curious No. 3)

The “King” is here to stay. People are turning to ashwagandha for its ability to significantly reduce stress and anxiety as well as its brain boosting properties. This evergreen shrub is rich in phytochemicals known to calm the brain, reduce swelling, and lower blood pressure – which is a perfect fit for this herbaceous juniper cucumber collins, Curious No. 3. You may notice improved sleep when you begin incorporating this superstar adaptogen.

Damiana (Curious No. 2) 

Damiana is an ancient Mayan herb known to increase libido and help manage anxiety and depression. This low-growing, flowering plant has been shown to relax muscles and reduce pain while also possibly improving stomach health. With a traditional use as an aphrodisiac, Damiana may help support hormone levels and enhance mood. Curious No. 2 features damiana in our spicy margarita for good reason.

Rhodiola (Curious No. 1) 

Rhodiola is an incredible adaptogen known to boost mood and memory, and has anti-inflammatory properties. Long prized in many Arctic cultures, rhodiola’s use dates back to at least to 77 A.D. in a Roman medical text.  Learn more about the golden root, featured in a bitter yet balanced pomegranate negroni, Curious No. 1. 

Gentian (Curious No. 1, 3, & 7) 

Gentian boosts circulation and digestion making it the perfect ingredient for an after-dinner digestif.  

Mood-boosting herbs and spices - Cacao (Curious No. 5), Nutmeg (Curious No. 6), Lavender (Curious No. 7) 

The smell of these aromatics alone, provides that soothing, calming effect you are seeking.  

As people are drinking less and less alcohol, they are asking for more interesting options and not accepting anything less than natural, quality ingredients that will work for them, not against them. 

We are seeing a resurgence of herbalism and a holistic approach to wellness, bringing back ancient practices of harvesting and preparing plants for their unique medicinal and healing properties. 

If we take a breath and pay attention, we will find that everything we need has been right under our noses all along. Why complicate what nature already perfected? Let’s all be more kind to ourselves and each other and maybe drink more plants. Cheers!

Find more information, support, and all around guidance from Kristen Bear aka Creative Sobriety on her website.