Pukka Herbs is expanding its wellness portfolio with the launch of two functional tea blends targeting digestive health and relaxation.

Gut Health combines ginger and peppermint with naturally fermented kombucha, creating what the brand describes as a warming yet refreshing flavour.

Meanwhile, Unwind has been formulated to support normal mental relaxation. The blend brings together chamomile and blueberry with adaptogenic ashwagandha and lion’s mane, a mushroom ingredient increasingly used in nootropic products.

The launch responds to growing interest in beverages offering everyday wellness benefits. Pukka said 70% of shoppers are seeking to lead healthier lifestyles, while half of UK soft drinks consumers favour drinks with health benefits over supplements.

Digestion and relaxation-related products currently account for 34.5% of functional fruit and herbal tea sales, according to figures cited by the company.

Elle Barker, chief marketing officer for the UK and Ireland at Lipton Teas and Infusions, said: “These functional wellness blends are a natural fit for our current Pukka portfolio, designed specifically to meet evolving consumer preferences and bring a refreshing perspective to everyday wellness".

“By bringing highly sought-after, trending ingredients into an accessible, delicious format, we’re making it easier than ever for people to take charge of their own wellbeing while helping our retail partners drive excitement and growth in the tea aisle.”

Both products are organic and Fair for Life certified. Each pack contains 20 individually wrapped, home-compostable tea bags made with stitched organic string rather than glue. The outer packaging is fully recyclable and produced using FSC-certified materials.

The new Gut Health and Unwind varieties will launch at Waitrose on 26 August, followed by a wider roll-out to retailers including Sainsbury’s and Holland & Barrett. Each pack carries an RRP of £4.99.