The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as Honey Citrus Mint Tea, is a comforting drink. It’s especially popular when it’s cold and flu season. This drink, called the “Cold Buster,” mixes mint tea, peach tea, hot water, lemonade, honey, and sometimes peppermint extract.
You can make this recipe at home with fresh ingredients. You can also adjust the sweetness to your taste.
The Medicine Ball started as a secret menu item at Starbucks. It became so popular that Starbucks added it to their official menu. Baristas know it as the “Medicine Ball.” It’s a favorite for those looking for a comforting and possibly immune-boosting drink in the colder months.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways
- The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as Honey Citrus Mint Tea, is a popular cold and flu season drink.
- The recipe includes mint tea, peach tea, hot water, lemonade, honey, and optional peppermint extract.
- It originated as a secret menu item before becoming an official Starbucks offering.
- The drink can be customized at home with fresh ingredients and adjusted sweetness levels.
- The Medicine Ball is known for its soothing and potentially immune-boosting properties.
What is the Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea
The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, is a favorite among Starbucks fans. It started as a secret menu item but quickly became a top pick for those feeling sick. It’s known for its soothing and comforting qualities.
Origins of the Medicine Ball Drink
The Medicine Ball hit Starbucks’ secret menu in late 2016. Customers and employees called it the “Cold Buster.” Its mix of citrus, mint, and honey was thought to help with sore throats and colds.
From Secret Menu to Official Status
Starbucks added the Medicine Ball to their official menu in 2017, renaming it Honey Citrus Mint Tea. This made it easy to order at any Starbucks, making it a favorite among many.
Why People Love This Drink
The Starbucks Medicine Ball and honey citrus mint tea are favorites for their comforting taste. The mix of citrus, mint, and honey is warm and inviting. It’s great for soothing sore throats and offering comfort when you’re not feeling well. Plus, it has low caffeine, so it won’t make you jittery.
“The Starbucks Medicine Ball tea is a delicious and comforting drink that I turn to whenever I’m feeling under the weather. The blend of flavors is just perfect for soothing my throat and lifting my spirits.”
Health Benefits of Medicine Ball Tea Components
The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, is a favorite drink. It combines ingredients that may help your health. These include soothing sore throats and boosting your immune system, especially during cold and flu season.
The main ingredients are green tea, lemon, and honey. Green tea is full of antioxidants that fight inflammation and viruses. Lemon is packed with vitamin C, which boosts your immune system and fights off free radicals.
Honey, the third main ingredient, brings many health benefits. It has antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. This makes it a great addition to the Medicine Ball.
The warm Medicine Ball can also comfort you when you’re not feeling well. Drinking it helps you stay hydrated. Plus, it offers a mix of tasty flavors.
“The tea components in the Medicine Ball are reported to contain polyphenols, which are anti-inflammatory and antiviral compounds that may help reduce inflammation and combat viruses.”
Even though the Medicine Ball isn’t a cure, its natural ingredients and warmth can help. Enjoying it alone or with friends can be a comforting choice. It’s a soothing drink that might just make you feel better.
Essential Ingredients for Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe
The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, is a favorite in cold weather. You can make it at home with a few key ingredients:
Tea Selection Guide
The Medicine Ball starts with a mix of teas. Choose high-quality loose-leaf teas like Teavana Peach Tranquility and Teavana Jade Citrus Mint. These teas have fruity, minty, and herbal flavors. Don’t use standard tea bags because they can have harmful chemicals and microplastics.
Citrus and Honey Components
Fresh lemon juice or lemonade adds a bright, tart taste. Use raw local honey or Manuka honey for sweetness. Honey soothes the throat and gives a natural energy boost.
Optional Flavor Enhancers
To make the minty flavor stronger, add a few drops of peppermint extract or fresh mint leaves. These optional ingredients make the Medicine Ball tea even more soothing and refreshing.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Teavana Peach Tranquility Tea | 1 tea bag | Provides peach and herbal flavors |
| Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Tea | 1 tea bag | Contributes refreshing citrus and mint notes |
| Freshly squeezed lemon juice | 2-3 tablespoons | Adds bright, tart flavor |
| Raw honey | 1-2 tablespoons | Sweetens the drink and offers health benefits |
| Peppermint extract (optional) | 1-2 drops | Enhances the minty profile |
| Fresh mint leaves (optional) | 2-3 leaves | Provides a fresh, aromatic finishing touch |
With these ingredients, you can make the comforting Starbucks Medicine Ball tea at home. You can also adjust the flavors to your liking.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Making the perfect how to make medicine ball tea or starbucks copycat recipe at home is simple. Just follow these easy steps to make a soothing and tasty Starbucks-inspired Medicine Ball tea in your kitchen:
- First, heat water to about 200°F (93°C). This is the best temperature for steeping the tea without losing the flavors.
- Put the peach tea sachet and mint tea sachet in a big mug or heatproof container.
- Pour the hot water over the tea bags and add 1 teaspoon of honey. Stir gently to mix.
- Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes. This lets the flavors fully mix.
- After steeping, take out the tea bags and stir the drink again.
- If you want, add a few drops of peppermint extract to boost the minty taste.
- Finish your homemade how to make medicine ball tea with a fresh mint sprig or lemon slice for a nice look.
Customize the sweetness and lemon to your liking. You can enjoy the Medicine Ball tea hot or over ice for a cool drink. With just a few ingredients, you can have this Starbucks favorite at home.
Customization Options and Variations
The Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea is a drink you can make your own. You can choose how sweet you like it, whether it’s warm or cold, and even mix in new flavors. There are lots of ways to make it your own.
Sweetness Adjustments
To change the sweetness, just add more or less honey. Start with the amount suggested and adjust it to your taste. If you want something without sugar, try stevia or monk fruit.
Temperature Variations
You can have your Medicine Ball Tea hot or cold. For cold, cool the tea and pour it over ice. Try adding different teas like raspberry or ginger for new tastes.
Ingredient Substitutions
You don’t have to stick to the original teas. Try other herbal or green teas for a different flavor. Add peppermint extract or fresh mint for a minty twist. For a caffeine-free drink, use Celestial Sleepytime Tea.
Also, try different honeys like clover or orange blossom. They add depth and complexity. The options for customizing your Medicine Ball Tea are endless.
Tips for Perfect Medicine Ball Tea Every Time
Making the perfect Starbucks-inspired Medicine Ball tea at home needs focus and a bit of trial and error. Follow these easy tips to enjoy a cozy, soothing drink every time.
- Begin with fresh, top-notch ingredients. Choose the best tea leaves, lemon juice, and local honey for the best taste and health perks.
- Heat your water to the right temperature to avoid bitterness. Aim for a temperature between 195°F and 205°F.
- Steep the tea bags for just the right amount of time. Too long can make the tea taste bitter. Aim for 3-5 minutes.
- Customize the honey and lemon to your liking. Some like it tart, while others prefer it sweeter.
- For the best lemon flavor, squeeze fresh lemon juice instead of using bottled or concentrated.
Feel free to try different tea blends to find your favorite Medicine Ball recipe. Mix green tea with herbal teas like ginkgo biloba or mate with lemongrass. You can also try fruit-infused teas. And if you want a hint of peppermint, add it slowly to keep the other flavors balanced.
For an extra health kick, use local honey. It might add more antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. With a bit of practice, you’ll be enjoying the best homemade medicine ball tea tips in no time.
How to Store and Reheat Your Medicine Ball Tea
Enjoying Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea at home can last longer than just one sip. With the right storage and reheating, you can enjoy its soothing flavors for days.
Storage Guidelines
Keep your Medicine Ball Tea fresh by storing leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. It stays good for up to 3 days. Let it cool down to room temperature before refrigerating to avoid condensation.
For longer storage, freeze your tea. Put it in airtight containers or ice cube trays and freeze for up to 6 months. Thaw it in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating Methods
- Stovetop Reheating: Warm the tea in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring often. Don’t let it boil to keep the flavors intact.
- Microwave Reheating: Heat the tea in a microwave-safe container in 30-second bursts, stirring between each. Watch it closely to avoid overheating.
Choose your reheating method wisely. Heat the tea slowly to keep its flavors bright. Overheating can dull the taste or make it bitter. With gentle care, your Medicine Ball Tea stays enjoyable for days.
Comparing Homemade vs. Starbucks Version
There are big differences between making the Starbucks Medicine Ball tea at home and buying it from Starbucks. Let’s look at what makes each version unique.
Cost-Effectiveness
Making the Medicine Ball tea at home saves a lot of money. It costs about $0.75 per serving. In contrast, a grande Starbucks Medicine Ball can cost between $3.25 and $4.95. Making it yourself means you can enjoy the same flavors while saving money, especially when you make a lot.
Customization and Control
At home, you can make the Medicine Ball tea just how you like it. You can change the sweetness by adding more or less honey. You can also skip the lemonade for less sugar or try different teas for your favorite taste. This control isn’t always possible with Starbucks.
Freshness and Quality
Homemade Medicine Ball tea uses the freshest ingredients, like real lemon juice and mint. This makes it taste more vibrant and true to the original. Starbucks might use pre-made lemonade mixes and older ingredients.
While Starbucks Medicine Ball is convenient, making it at home has many benefits. You save money, can customize it, and use fresher ingredients. By making it yourself, you can enjoy a Starbucks-like drink but with more control and savings.
| Feature | Starbucks Medicine Ball | Homemade Medicine Ball |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per Serving | $3.25 – $4.95 | $0.75 |
| Customization Options | Limited | Extensive |
| Ingredient Freshness | Moderate | High |
| Caffeine Content | 16-25 mg | Varies |
| Calorie Count (Grande) | 99 calories | Adjustable |
The Starbucks Medicine Ball and homemade versions both have their own perks. Your choice depends on what matters most to you: convenience, saving money, or customizing the recipe.
Conclusion
The Starbucks Medicine Ball tea is loved for its mix of mint, peach, citrus, and honey. Making it at home lets you enjoy it anytime, tailored to your taste. It’s great for when you’re not feeling well or just want a warm, tasty drink.
This drink, once a secret, is now a favorite on Starbucks’ menu. It’s known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea. It’s especially popular in cold weather or when you need a soothing drink.
Whether you get it from Starbucks or make it yourself, the Medicine Ball is a treat. You can change the recipe to fit your taste and enjoy it hot or cold. It’s a cozy drink to have at home, offering a taste of Starbucks’ magic.
FAQ
What is the Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea?
The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also called Honey Citrus Mint Tea, is a warm drink. It’s popular when people are sick. It mixes mint tea, peach tea, hot water, lemonade, honey, and sometimes peppermint extract.
How did the Medicine Ball drink originate?
It started as a secret menu item at Starbucks, called the “Cold Buster.” It was known for helping with sore throats and colds. Starbucks made it official as Honey Citrus Mint Tea because so many people loved it.
Why is the Medicine Ball tea so popular?
People love it for its mix of citrus, mint, and honey. It’s a favorite warm drink during cold and flu season.
What are the key ingredients in the Medicine Ball tea?
It has Teavana Jade Citrus Mint tea and Teavana Peach Tranquility tea. You also need hot water, lemonade or fresh lemon juice, and honey. You can add peppermint extract or fresh mint leaves too.
How do you prepare the Medicine Ball tea at home?
First, heat water to 200°F (93°C). Then, put mint and peach tea bags in a mug. Add hot water, lemonade or lemon juice, and honey. Let it steep for 3-5 minutes. Remove the tea bags and stir well. Add peppermint extract if you like. Finally, garnish with fresh mint leaves or lemon slices.
How can you customize the Medicine Ball tea?
You can change the sweetness by adding more or less honey. Try sugar-free alternatives or different herbal teas. You can also make it iced or add more mint. Use flavored honey for a unique taste.
What are the tips for making the perfect Medicine Ball tea?
Use fresh, quality ingredients and heat the water right. Don’t steep the tea too long. Adjust the honey and lemon to your taste. Use fresh lemon juice and try different teas. Add peppermint extract slowly. Consider using local honey for the best flavor.
How do you store and reheat leftover starbucks medicine ball tea?
Keep leftover tea in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop or microwave. Avoid overheating to keep the flavors. Freeze it for up to 6 months in airtight containers or ice cube trays.
What are the advantages of making the Starbucks medicine ball tea at home?
Making it at home is cheaper and you can customize it. You can choose healthier options and use fresher ingredients. You can also adjust the sweetness to your liking.
Starbucks Medicine Ball
Equipment
- Kettle or saucepan for boiling water
- Mug or heatproof container
- Stirring spoon
Ingredients
- 1 Teavana Peach Tranquility Tea bag
- 1 Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Tea bag
- 2-3 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1-2 tablespoons raw honey or preferred sweetener
- 1-2 drops peppermint extract optional
- 2-3 fresh mint leaves optional
- 1 cup hot water
Instructions
- Heat the water to about 200°F (93°C) for optimal steeping.
- Place the peach tea and mint tea bags in a mug or heatproof container.
- Pour hot water over the tea bags and add honey. Stir gently to dissolve the honey.
- Let the tea steep for 3-5 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.
- Remove the tea bags and stir the tea again.
- Optionally, add peppermint extract for extra mint flavor.
- Garnish with fresh mint leaves or a slice of lemon for a decorative touch.
- Adjust sweetness by adding more honey if desired.
- Enjoy hot, or chill for an iced version.