Starbucks Medicine Ball (What Is It?, Ordering, Recipe)

Last Updated on: 13th February 2024, 08:17 pm

While researching the Starbucks Medicine Ball, I was surprised to discover that it has become one of its most popular secret menu items.

With its unique blend of flavors and reputation as a go-to drink during cold and flu season, it’s no wonder that people are flocking to try it.

What Is A Starbucks Medicine Ball? Real Name?

The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as The Coldbuster, is a soothing drink officially named Honey Citrus Mint Tea by Starbucks HQ. This warm beverage is particularly favored during cold and flu season due to its health benefits. It consists of a blend of lemonade, citrus-mint tea, peach-flavored tea, local honey, and a hint of peppermint extract.

The official name, Honey Citrus Mint Tea, reflects the key ingredients that provide comfort and relief. Although baristas recognize it by various names like Medicine Ball or Cold Buster, the official name remains the same. This popular drink can also be customized with different ingredients based on personal preferences.

Ingredients

You’ll need key ingredients to make a Starbucks Medicine Ball at home. The drink consists of steamed lemonade, hot water, Jade Citrus Mint green tea, Peach Tranquility tea, and honey.

Jade Citrus Mint tea blends lemon verbena, lemongrass, and spearmint, while Peach Tranquility tea combines peach, pineapple, and chamomile. These ingredients work together to create a soothing and comforting beverage.

You can customize the Medicine Ball by adjusting the tea type, the honey amount, or even adding mint syrup. Making this drink at home allows you to enjoy its benefits and flavors without going to the coffee shop. So gather these ingredients and prepare to make your Starbucks Medicine Ball.

Taste Profile

With its warm, sweet citrus and mint flavor profile, the Starbucks Medicine Ball is a comforting and soothing beverage that combines the refreshing taste of lemonade, the herbal notes of mint tea, and the fruity essence of peach tea. This delightful concoction of flavors creates a harmonious, refreshing, and satisfying blend.

The tangy lemonade offers citrus, while the mint tea brings a refreshing and calming herbal taste. The peach tea adds a subtle fruity sweetness that perfectly complements the other flavors.

Sipping on this beverage is like taking a sip of pure relaxation and comfort. It’s no wonder that the Starbucks Medicine Ball has become a go-to choice for those seeking a moment of relief and tranquility.

How To Order One at Starbucks

When it comes to ordering a Starbucks Medicine Ball, there are two main options: in-store or on the app. If you prefer the traditional way, walk into a Starbucks and ask for a Honey Citrus Mint Tea.

Alternatively, you can use the Starbucks app to customize your order, adjust tea and lemonade amounts, and even add peppermint syrup. Either way, ordering this comforting beverage is easy and convenient.

In-Store

When walking into a Starbucks store, I confidently order the refreshing and soothing Honey Citrus Mint Tea, known as the Medicine Ball. Here’s how I do it:

  • Approach the counter with a smile, ready to conquer that sore throat.
  • Politely ask the barista for the official menu name, the Honey Citrus Mint Tea.
  • If you prefer using popular nicknames like Medicine Ball or Cold Buster, use those, too.
  • Feel free to customize your drink by adjusting the honey, lemonade, or peppermint syrup for an extra kick.

On The App

Follow these easy steps to order a Medicine Ball at Starbucks using the app.

First, open the Starbucks app on your smartphone and log in to your account. Once logged in, navigate the menu and select the ‘Hot Drinks’ section.

Next, scroll down until you find the ‘Teavana Citrus Mint Teas’ category. You’ll see the Medicine Ball listed as a menu item within this category. Tap on it to view the details and customization options.

You can choose the size, select whether you want it with or without water, and even add extra honey if you prefer a sweeter taste. Once you’ve selected it, add the Medicine Ball to your cart and checkout.

How Much Do They Cost?

The cost of a Starbucks Medicine Ball drink can vary depending on the location and size, typically ranging from $4 to $6. Here are four things to consider about the prices of this popular beverage:

  1. Location: Prices may be higher in urban areas or airports than in suburban or rural stores. So, if you’re in a city or traveling, expect to pay a bit more.
  2. Specialty Tea: The Medicine Ball is a specialty tea drink, which may be priced slightly higher than standard coffee beverages. But the unique blend of citrus-mint tea, lemonade, peach-flavored tea, local honey, and a hint of peppermint extract makes it worth it.
  3. Add-ons and Modifications: Prices for the Medicine Ball may increase if you request add-ons or modifications. So, consider additional charges if you want to customize your drink.
  4. Check the Menu or App: To get the latest pricing information for the Medicine Ball drink, check the Starbucks menu or app. This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect when you order.

Copycat DIY Homemade Recipe

To make a DIY Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as Honey Citrus Mint Tea, you can follow this recipe:

  • Ingredients:
    • 8 ounces of water
    • 8 ounces of lemonade
    • 1 tablespoon of honey
    • 1 bag of Jade Citrus Mint tea
    • 1 bag of Peach Tranquility tea4
  • Instructions:
    1. Combine water and lemonade in a saucepan and heat until hot.
    2. Add the Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility tea bags to the hot water-lemonade mixture and steep for 2-3 minutes.
    3. Remove the tea bags and stir in honey.
    4. Pour the mixture into a mug and enjoy warm.

This homemade version of the Starbucks Medicine Ball provides a soothing and comforting drink, especially during the cold and flu season.

Nutrition – Are There Healthy Benefits Or Drawbacks?

As I consider the nutrition of the Starbucks Medicine Ball, or Honey Citrus Mint Tea, there are a few key points to discuss.

One of those is the caffeine content, which can concern some individuals.

Additionally, we should explore the calorie count of this comforting drink and how it may fit into a balanced diet.

Lastly, it’s important to consider whether drinking the Medicine Ball is safe during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

These points will help us determine this popular beverage’s potential healthy benefits or drawbacks.

Caffeine

The Starbucks Medicine Ball offers a gentle energy boost with its relatively low caffeine content. It can be a viable alternative for those seeking a break from traditional coffee or espresso-based drinks. Here are four reasons why the caffeine in the Medicine Ball can be beneficial:

  1. Alleviates fatigue: The caffeine in the drink helps combat tiredness and keeps you alert and focused.
  2. Cold relief: Combining caffeine from the tea and the drink’s soothing properties can relieve cold symptoms.
  3. Healthier choice: Compared to many other Starbucks beverages, the Medicine Ball has lower caffeine content, making it a healthier option for those looking to reduce their caffeine intake.
  4. Variety: For those who want to switch up their usual caffeine routine, the Medicine Ball offers a unique and refreshing alternative with its blend of green tea, citrus-mint tea, and peach-flavored tea.

Calories

The calorie content of the Starbucks Medicine Ball is relatively low compared to many other beverages offered by the coffee chain. A grand size of the Medicine Ball contains approximately 130 calories. This makes it a lighter option for those watching their calorie intake.

Unlike some sugary and high-calorie drinks on the Starbucks menu, the Medicine Ball offers a soothing blend of flavors without excessive calories. Made with citrus-mint tea, peach-flavored tea, half-steamed lemonade, and a touch of honey, it provides a comforting experience without compromising taste.

This makes it an appealing choice for individuals looking for a warm and soothing beverage without the guilt of consuming too many calories. So, if you’re seeking a copycat Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe, you can enjoy this delicious drink in your home without worrying about excessive calorie intake.

Drinking One During Pregnancy

Considering the potential benefits and drawbacks of drinking a Starbucks Medicine Ball during pregnancy is important. Here are four things to keep in mind:

  1. Soothing relief: The warm blend of citrus mint green tea, lemonade, and honey can help ease cold symptoms if you’re under the weather during pregnancy.
  2. Natural remedies: The honey in the Medicine Ball can soothe a sore throat and calm coughs naturally, providing some relief without relying solely on medication.
  3. Immune boost: The vitamin C from the lemonade in the drink can help boost your immune system during pregnancy, which is especially important when trying to stay healthy for yourself and your baby.
  4. Caffeine considerations: It’s crucial to be mindful of the medicine ball’s caffeine content, as pregnant women are advised to limit their caffeine intake. Discuss this with your healthcare provider before enjoying this warm drink.

While the Starbucks Medicine Ball may offer some benefits, it’s always best to consult your healthcare provider before consuming herbal teas or drinks during pregnancy. Stay informed and make choices that are right for you and your baby.

While Breastfeeding

After considering the potential benefits and drawbacks of drinking a Starbucks Medicine Ball during pregnancy, it’s important to explore the implications of consuming this drink while breastfeeding.

The Starbucks Medicine Ball can be comforting and soothing for breastfeeding moms. The warm, citrus-mint flavors can provide a refreshing, more enjoyable taste than during pregnancy. To make it, add a pump of peach-flavored tea and a pump of citrus-mint tea into a cup of hot water and half a cup of lemonade.

The hydration from the drink can support milk production and overall breastfeeding health. Additionally, the herbal ingredients like mint and chamomile in the Peach Tranquility tea may have calming effects for both mom and baby.

However, it’s important to enjoy the drink in moderation and ensure the ingredients are safe and suitable for breastfeeding.

Mike Shaw

Mike is a fervent aficionado of all things coffee. His journey has taken him from the verdant coffee farms of South America to the vibrant coffeehouses of Europe and many places in between. Over the years, he's delved deep into the intricate tapestry of coffee, savoring, brewing, and analyzing myriad varieties. For Mike, coffee transcends its role as a morning energizer; it's a world waiting to be explored and cherished.

 mike@kitchenhousecoffee.com  https://kitchenhousecoffee.com
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