US functional beverage maker Free Rain has launched a sparkling water that contains maca, a Peruvian herb used to “enhance” libido.

The company said Free Rain Arousal includes 500mg of maca along with pink grapefruit and basil flavourings. According to Free Rain founder Colin McCabe, the beverage addresses “an important need-state that customers are looking for”.

Discover B2B Marketing That Performs

Combine business intelligence and editorial excellence to reach engaged professionals across 36 leading media platforms.

Find out more

“We have called this Arousal not only because of maca’s benefits, but because of the sensorial experience of drinking it. It has an arousing aroma, an invigorating flavour and an enticing colour,” added McCabe, who is also the co-founder of restaurant chain Chopt Creative Salad Co.

McCabe founded Free Rain last year, launching three functional beverages that contain “benefit-driven ingredients”. The flavours are Energy, infused with Tart Cherry & Siberian Ginseng; Focus, infused with Blood Orange Ginger & Ashwagandha and Calm, infused with Blackberry & Passionflower.

Free Rain said Arousal is the first-of-its-kind, however soft drinks brand owners are increasingly targeting different mood states with new launches. In May, PepsiCo unveiled Soulboost, a two-strong range of sparkling waters that support mental stamina and relaxation. Last year, PepsiCo released Driftwell, which supports sleep quality.

Free Rain Arousal, which contains no added sugars, is on sale on the brand’s website for US$2.99 per 35.5cl can or US$35.99 per 12-pack.

GlobalData Strategic Intelligence

US Tariffs are shifting - will you react or anticipate?

Don’t let policy changes catch you off guard. Stay proactive with real-time data and expert analysis.

By GlobalData

Gen Z, personalisation and the future of functional drinks – Click here for a comment

Just Drinks Excellence Awards - Nominations Closed

Nominations are now closed for the Just Drinks Excellence Awards. A big thanks to all the organisations that entered – your response has been outstanding, showcasing exceptional innovation, leadership, and impact.

Excellence in Action
De Kuyper Royal Distillers’ De Kuyper Batched 0.0% range has won both Innovation and Product Launches honours in the 2025 Just Drinks Excellence Awards. Learn how these premium, non-alcoholic RTD cocktails help operators serve consistent, bar-quality drinks while tapping fast-growing demand for sophisticated alcohol-free options.

Discover the Impact