Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe: How to Make the Famous Honey Citrus Mint Tea at Home
If you’ve ever found yourself feeling under the weather and craving something warm and soothing, chances are you’ve heard of the Starbucks Medicine Ball. This beloved beverage, officially known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea , has become a cult favorite for its comforting blend of citrus, mint, and honey flavors that seem to work wonders when you’re battling a cold or simply need a pick-me-up.
The good news? You don’t need to make a trip to Starbucks every time you crave this soothing drink. With this medicine ball Starbucks recipe, you can recreate the magic in your own kitchen, saving money while enjoying the same delicious taste and potential health benefits. Whether you call it the Medicine Ball, Honey Citrus Mint Tea, or the Cold Buster, this copycat recipe will become your go-to remedy for those days when you need a little extra comfort.
What Is the Starbucks Medicine Ball?
The Starbucks medicine ball tea recipe originated as a secret menu item that baristas would make for customers seeking relief from cold and flu symptoms. The drink became so popular that Starbucks officially added it to their menu in 2017 as the “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” though most loyal fans still refer to it by its original nickname.
This warming beverage combines two types of Teavana teas – Jade Citrus Mint green tea and Peach Tranquility herbal tea – steeped together with hot water and lemonade, then sweetened with honey and garnished with a fresh lemon slice. The result is a perfectly balanced drink that’s citrusy, minty, slightly sweet, and incredibly soothing for a sore throat.
Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe: Ingredients You’ll Need
Essential Ingredients
- 1 Jade Citrus Mint Tea bag (Teavana brand or equivalent green tea with spearmint, lemon verbena, and lemongrass)
- 1 Peach Tranquility Tea bag (Teavana brand or equivalent herbal tea with chamomile, peach, and citrus notes)
- 1 cup hot water (about 175°F or 80°C, not boiling)
- 1/2 cup lemonade (warmed, not hot)
- 2 tablespoons honey (adjust to taste)
- 1 fresh lemon slice (for garnish)
Optional Add-ins
- 1 pump of peppermint syrup for extra mint flavor
- Fresh mint leaves for garnish
- A splash of coconut milk for creaminess
- Turmeric or ginger for added anti-inflammatory benefits
Finding the exact Teavana teas can be challenging since Teavana stores closed, but you can purchase them online through various retailers or substitute with similar tea blends from brands like Harney & Sons, Republic of Tea, or Bigelow. The key is finding a citrus mint green tea and a peach chamomile herbal tea.
Step-by-Step Instructions: Making Your Medicine Ball Tea
- Heat your liquids separately: Bring one cup of water to about 175°F (just before boiling) and warm your lemonade in a separate container or microwave for about 30 seconds. Warming the lemonade prevents it from cooling down your tea too quickly.
- Steep the tea bags: Place both the Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility tea bags in a large mug (16 oz capacity works best). Pour the hot water over the tea bags and let them steep for 5 minutes. Don’t rush this step – proper steeping extracts all the beneficial compounds and flavors.
- Remove the tea bags: After 5 minutes, gently squeeze the tea bags against the side of your mug to extract maximum flavor, then discard them.
- Add the lemonade: Pour in the warmed lemonade and stir gently to combine. The lemonade adds the perfect citrusy sweetness and tang that makes this medicine ball tea Starbucks recipe so distinctive.
- Sweeten with honey: Add 2 tablespoons of honey (or to taste) and stir until completely dissolved. The honey not only sweetens the drink but also provides soothing properties for your throat.
- Garnish and serve: Add a fresh lemon slice on top for garnish and an extra burst of citrus. Serve immediately while hot.
💡 Pro Tips for the Perfect Medicine Ball
Temperature matters: Don’t use boiling water for green tea as it can make it bitter. Aim for 175°F for the perfect extraction.
Honey variation: Try different types of honey like manuka honey for added antibacterial properties, or local honey which some believe helps with seasonal allergies.
Make it ahead: You can batch prepare the tea concentrate and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat and add fresh lemonade and honey when ready to serve.
Health Benefits of the Medicine Ball Recipe
While the medicine ball recipe Starbucks fans rave about isn’t a cure-all, the ingredients do offer several potential health benefits that may help you feel better when you’re under the weather:
Green Tea (Jade Citrus Mint)
The Jade Citrus Mint tea contains green tea, which is rich in antioxidants called catechins. These compounds have been shown to support immune function and may help reduce inflammation. The added spearmint and lemongrass provide additional soothing properties and can help clear congestion.
Herbal Tea (Peach Tranquility)
This herbal blend features chamomile, which is well-known for its calming and anti-inflammatory properties. Chamomile has been used for centuries to soothe upset stomachs, promote relaxation, and help with sleep – perfect when you’re feeling run down. Learn more about chamomile’s medicinal properties.
Honey
Raw honey is more than just a sweetener. It has antimicrobial and antibacterial properties that can help soothe a sore throat and suppress coughs. A 2012 study found that honey was as effective as some over-the-counter cough suppressants in reducing nighttime cough and improving sleep quality.
Lemon
Lemons are packed with vitamin C, which supports immune function. The citric acid in lemon can also help thin mucus and keep you hydrated – both important when fighting off a cold.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 130-150 |
| Total Carbohydrates | 33g |
| Sugars | 30g |
| Caffeine | 16-25mg |
| Vitamin C | 15-20% DV |
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific brands and amounts used.
Customizing Your Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea Recipe
One of the best things about making this Starbucks medicine ball tea recipe at home is the ability to customize it to your preferences. Here are some popular variations:
Make It Stronger
If you prefer a more robust tea flavor, use two bags of each tea variety or steep for an extra 2-3 minutes. Some people also like to reduce the amount of lemonade and increase the hot water for a less sweet version.
Sugar-Free Option
Replace the regular lemonade with sugar-free lemonade or fresh lemon juice mixed with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit. You can also reduce or eliminate the honey if you’re watching your sugar intake.
Add a Kick
For extra immune-boosting power, add a small piece of fresh ginger root or a pinch of cayenne pepper. These additions can help clear sinuses and provide additional anti-inflammatory benefits.
Iced Version
Yes, you can enjoy this as an iced beverage! Follow the same recipe but allow the tea to cool completely before adding ice. This version is refreshing and still provides the same great flavors, perfect for warmer days when you’re still feeling under the weather.
Cost Comparison: Homemade vs. Starbucks
Making your medicine ball Starbucks recipe at home isn’t just more convenient – it’s significantly more economical too. Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Item | Starbucks Price | Homemade Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Grande Medicine Ball (16 oz) | $5.25 – $5.95 | $1.25 – $1.75 |
| 10 Drinks | $52.50 – $59.50 | $12.50 – $17.50 |
| Savings per drink | – | $4.00 – $4.20 |
As you can see, making this recipe at home saves you about 70-75% per drink. If you’re someone who reaches for a Medicine Ball regularly during cold and flu season, those savings add up quickly!
Where to Buy the Ingredients
Finding the right ingredients is crucial for authentic-tasting results. Here’s where you can source everything you need:
Tea Bags
The Teavana teas are available on Amazon , at some grocery stores, or through online tea retailers. If you can’t find the exact brands, look for these alternatives:
- For Jade Citrus Mint: Bigelow Green Tea with Mint, Harney & Sons Green Tea with Citrus & Mint, or any quality green tea blended with spearmint and lemongrass
- For Peach Tranquility: Celestial Seasonings Peach Herbal Tea, Traditional Medicinals Chamomile with Lavender, or any peach-flavored herbal tea with chamomile
Other Ingredients
Lemonade, honey, and lemons are readily available at any grocery store. For the best results, use fresh-squeezed lemonade or a high-quality store-bought version without too many artificial ingredients. Consider trying different honey varieties to find your favorite flavor profile.
Best Times to Enjoy Your Medicine Ball Tea
While this medicine ball tea Starbucks recipe is famous for helping with cold and flu symptoms, you don’t need to be sick to enjoy it. Here are the perfect occasions for sipping this delicious beverage:
- First signs of a cold: At the first tickle in your throat or sniffle, brew yourself a cup to help soothe symptoms and stay hydrated
- Before bed: The chamomile in the Peach Tranquility tea has natural calming properties that can help you relax and sleep better
- Stress relief: Need a moment of zen? The combination of warm tea, honey, and soothing herbs is perfect for unwinding after a long day
- Cold weather comfort: Even when you’re perfectly healthy, this is a wonderfully warming drink for chilly days
- Alternative to coffee: With only 16-25mg of caffeine (compared to coffee’s 95mg), it’s a gentler pick-me-up for the afternoon
Does the Medicine Ball actually help when you’re sick?
While it’s not a medical treatment, many people find the Medicine Ball helpful for relieving cold symptoms. The warm liquid helps soothe a sore throat, the honey has antimicrobial properties, and the steam can help with congestion. The ingredients also provide vitamin C and antioxidants that support immune function. However, it should complement, not replace, proper medical care when needed.
Can I make this recipe without lemonade?
Yes! While lemonade is traditional, you can substitute it with fresh lemon juice and a sweetener of your choice. Use about 2-3 tablespoons of fresh lemon juice mixed with 1/2 cup of hot water and adjust sweetness with honey or your preferred sweetener. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious.
How much caffeine is in a Medicine Ball?
The Medicine Ball contains approximately 16-25mg of caffeine, which comes from the green tea in the Jade Citrus Mint tea bag. This is significantly less than a cup of coffee (95mg) or even a regular cup of green tea (25-50mg), making it suitable for afternoon or evening consumption for most people.
Is the Medicine Ball safe during pregnancy?
Pregnant women should consult with their healthcare provider before consuming this beverage. While it contains relatively low caffeine, it does include herbal teas like chamomile and lemongrass, which some practitioners recommend limiting or avoiding during pregnancy. Always check with your doctor about what’s safe for you and your baby.
Can I use regular tea bags instead of Teavana?
Absolutely! The Teavana brand is not essential. Look for any quality green tea with mint and citrus notes, and a peach or chamomile herbal tea. Brands like Bigelow, Celestial Seasonings, Harney & Sons, or Republic of Tea all make suitable alternatives. The key is matching the flavor profiles rather than the exact brand.
How do I order a Medicine Ball at Starbucks?
Simply ask for a “Honey Citrus Mint Tea” as that’s the official menu name. However, most baristas will also know what you mean if you ask for a “Medicine Ball.” The drink comes in Tall (12 oz), Grande (16 oz), and Venti (20 oz) sizes. You can also customize it by adjusting the amount of honey or lemonade.
Can I make a large batch of Medicine Ball tea?
Yes! To make multiple servings, simply multiply the ingredients proportionally. For example, for 4 servings, use 4 of each tea bag, 4 cups hot water, 2 cups lemonade, and 1/2 cup honey. Steep all the tea bags together in a large pot, then divide among mugs and adjust individual servings to taste. The tea concentrate can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated as needed.
Why is it called a Medicine Ball?
The drink earned its “Medicine Ball” nickname from customers who found it soothing when they were feeling under the weather. The name spread through social media and word-of-mouth, becoming so popular that Starbucks baristas knew exactly what customers meant when they ordered it by this unofficial name. The combination of ingredients seemed to provide comfort similar to traditional home remedies, hence the medicinal reference.
Tips for Storing Your Tea and Ingredients
To ensure your homemade Starbucks medicine ball recipe tastes fresh every time, follow these storage tips:
Tea Storage
Keep your tea bags in an airtight container away from light, heat, and moisture. Properly stored tea bags can maintain their quality for 18-24 months, though they’re best used within 6-12 months for optimal flavor.
Honey Storage
Store honey at room temperature in a sealed container. It never expires, though it may crystallize over time. If this happens, simply place the container in warm water to return it to liquid form. Learn more about proper honey storage techniques.
Lemon Storage
Fresh lemons keep best in the refrigerator for up to 4 weeks. If you have extra lemon slices, freeze them in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Pre-Made Tea Concentrate
If you’ve made extra tea (without lemonade and honey), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions and add fresh lemonade and honey when ready to serve.
Other Starbucks Drinks You Can Make at Home
Once you’ve mastered this medicine ball recipe Starbucks style, you might want to try recreating other popular Starbucks beverages. Check out these related recipes on our site:
- Copycat Starbucks Pink Drink Recipe
- Homemade Pumpkin Spice Latte
- Starbucks Chai Tea Latte at Home
- Iced Brown Sugar Oat Milk Shaken Espresso
- 10 Easy Hot Tea Recipes for Cold Weather
