Functional drinks are one of the biggest wellness trends of ’26.

In fact, more people are reaching for beverages that promise benefits beyond simple refreshment than ever before. Tapping into that growing demand, a Cork couple has launched a new range of drinks designed to help people slow down, unwind and find a little calm in their day.

Cork couple Brian and Joanna O’Donovan’s TranquiliTea range blends Lions Mane, Ashwagandha, Lemon Balm, Chamomile, Holy Basil and Magnesium into a jasmine tea-based, lightly carbonated drink they say can help us all to relax and focus — with no sugar and no calories.

“We wanted to make a drink that genuinely helps people unwind naturally. Something you can grab during or after work, or on a quiet Saturday, without compromising on taste or health.” Brian told Yay Cork.

“Both of us come from accounting and finance backgrounds, working in high-pressure, deadline-driven roles. Long hours, constant mental load, and the expectation to always be switched on were part of everyday working life.”

During stressful periods, caffeine became the default solution — often four or five coffees a day, and sometimes energy drinks when coffee stopped working: “While the initial boost helped in the short term, it always led to the same cycle: an energy rush followed by a crash, jitters, and eventually stomach issues from caffeine and sugar overload.

“What we realised was that we didn’t need more stimulation — we needed to calm our nervous systems while still being able to focus. Something that could replace that second coffee or energy drink around 3pm, without sending energy levels on a rollercoaster. When we started looking for alternatives, we couldn’t find anything that met those needs.

“Many drinks were high in sugar, full of artificial ingredients, or didn’t taste good enough to become a genuine daily habit. That gap is what led us to start developing TranquiliTea.”

TranquiliTea is designed to support calm, focused energy rather than quick spikes. Each can contains 660mg of Lion’s Mane, a nootropic associated with focus, memory, and mental clarity. Brian and Joanna also included adaptogens such as Ashwagandha, Lemon Balm and Chamomile flowers to help the body better manage stress and magnesium to support relaxation and nervous system balance.

Making it happen 

While neither founder came from the drinks industry, their professional backgrounds helped when it came to structure, planning, and turning an idea into a viable business: “The journey from concept to production was still a steep learning curve.” says Brian.

“From researching ingredients and developing flavours to designing and navigating packaging, production, and compliance, it took months of testing, refinement, and iteration. Being based in Cork made a big difference — the local food and drinks culture and the openness of people here to trying something new played a key role in shaping the brand.”

What’s next in 2026?

“Our main focus for 2026 is getting TranquiliTea into more retailers across Cork and Ireland and continuing to introduce the brand to new customers through food fairs and events.” says Brian.

“Before Christmas we landed our first retailer, O’Leary’s SuperValu in Tower. The cans have already sold out and stock needs replenishing. Just this week we have started supplying Here’s Health stores, Urban Pantry and will be available at the Spa at the Kingsley Hotel.

“Moving forward, we plan to build on that momentum by expanding retail availability locally and nationally, while continuing to engage with customers face-to-face at food festivals and events, as well as in-store tastings.”

TranquiliTea comes in three flavours: Berry Bliss, Citrus Chill, and Tropical Calm and it’s also available online at tranquilitea.ie.