Introduction

You’re feeling under the weather. Your throat feels scratchy, your nose won’t stop running, and all you want is something warm and soothing. That’s when you hear about the Medicine Ball Starbucks drink—a secret menu item that’s become legendary for helping people feel better during cold and flu season.

The Medicine Ball Starbucks, officially called the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, has developed a cult following among Starbucks regulars. This isn’t just another trendy drink. It’s a comforting blend of mint, citrus, and honey that thousands of people swear by when they’re feeling sick. Whether you’re battling a cold, dealing with allergies, or just want something cozy on a chilly day, this drink has your back.

In this guide, you’ll learn everything about the Medicine Ball at Starbucks—from its origins to how to order it, what makes it so effective, and even how to recreate it at home for a fraction of the price.

What Is the Medicine Ball Starbucks Drink?

The Medicine Ball Starbucks drink is a hot tea beverage that combines two types of tea, steamed lemonade, honey, and hot water. It’s officially known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, but most people still call it the Medicine Ball—a name that stuck from its secret menu days.

Here’s what goes into this healing concoction:

• Jade Citrus Mint Tea: A green tea with spearmint, lemon verbena, and lemongrass
• Peach Tranquility Tea: An herbal tea blend with peach, candied pineapple, chamomile, and rose hips
• Steamed lemonade: Adds citrus flavor and vitamin C
• Hot water: Dilutes the intensity and makes it easier to sip
• Honey: Natural sweetness and soothing properties

The combination creates a sweet, minty, and citrusy flavor profile that’s both refreshing and comforting. The steam helps open up your sinuses, while the warm liquid soothes your throat.

The Story Behind the Medicine Ball

The Medicine Ball wasn’t created by Starbucks corporate. It started as a grassroots phenomenon on social media and secret menu websites around 2016. Customers discovered that combining these specific ingredients created the perfect drink for cold symptoms.

The name “Medicine Ball” caught on because people genuinely felt better after drinking it. Baristas started noticing a pattern—customers would come in sniffling and asking for “that sick drink” or “the cold remedy.” Word spread on Reddit, Instagram, and TikTok.

Starbucks took notice. In 2017, they officially added it to their menu as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea. Despite the official name, most customers still walk in and order a Medicine Ball. Baristas know exactly what you mean.

This drink became especially popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. When people were hyper-aware of any throat tickle or sniffle, the Medicine Ball provided comfort and reassurance.

Why Does the Medicine Ball Help When You’re Sick?

Let’s be clear: the Medicine Ball Starbucks drink isn’t a cure for colds, flu, or COVID-19. But it does contain ingredients that can help you feel more comfortable when you’re under the weather.

The Benefits of Each Ingredient

Mint (from Jade Citrus Mint Tea):

• Menthol in mint can help open nasal passages
• May ease congestion and make breathing easier
• Provides a cooling sensation that soothes irritated throats

Lemon (from steamed lemonade):

• High in vitamin C, which supports immune function
• Citric acid can help thin mucus
• The acidity may have antimicrobial properties

Honey:

• Coats and soothes sore throats
• Studies show honey can be as effective as some cough medicines
• Has natural antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties
• Helps suppress coughs, especially at night

Chamomile (from Peach Tranquility):

• Known for calming and anti-inflammatory effects
• May help you relax and rest better
• Traditionally used for digestive comfort

Warmth and Steam:

• Hot liquids help loosen congestion
• Steam can temporarily relieve nasal stuffiness
• Staying hydrated is crucial when you’re sick

The Medicine Ball won’t make your cold disappear overnight. But it provides symptomatic relief that can make you more comfortable while your body fights off illness.

How to Order a Medicine Ball at Starbucks

Ordering your Medicine Ball Starbucks drink is simple, but knowing a few tricks can help you get exactly what you want.

The Standard Order

Walk up to the counter or drive-thru and say one of these:

• “I’d like a Medicine Ball, please”
• “Can I get a Honey Citrus Mint Tea?”
• “I’ll have the sick drink” (most baristas will know)

Choose your size:

• Tall (12 oz): Good for a quick comfort fix
• Grande (16 oz): Most popular size, perfect balance
• Venti (20 oz): Maximum soothing power

The standard recipe comes with half hot water and half steamed lemonade, one bag of each tea, and honey.

How to Customize Your Medicine Ball

You can modify your Medicine Ball Starbucks to suit your preferences:

Adjust the sweetness:

• Ask for extra honey if you want it sweeter
• Request fewer pumps of honey if you prefer less sweet
• Try agave syrup instead of honey

Change the lemonade ratio:

• “Light lemonade” = more hot water, less lemonade
• “Extra lemonade” = more citrus flavor and tanginess
• “No lemonade” = just hot water (less sweet, less calories)

Temperature preferences:

• “Extra hot” if you want maximum warmth
• Kids temperature” if you’re sensitive to heat

Add-ons that work well:

• Add a pump of peppermint syrup for extra mint
• Request a splash of coconut milk for creaminess
• Add an extra tea bag if you want it stronger

Medicine Ball Nutrition Facts and Calories

If you’re watching your calorie intake, here’s what you need to know about the Medicine Ball Starbucks nutrition profile:

Standard Grande (16 oz) Medicine Ball:

• Calories: 130
• Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 33g
• Sugar: 30g
• Protein: 0g
• Caffeine: 16-25mg (from green tea)

The calories and sugar come primarily from the honey and lemonade. Compared to many Starbucks drinks, the Medicine Ball is relatively low in calories.

Making It Lower Calorie:

If you want to reduce calories and sugar:

• Order it with half lemonade, half water (cuts calories by about 40%)
• Ask for just one or two pumps of honey instead of the standard amount
• Skip the honey entirely and add your own stevia or sweetener

The caffeine content is minimal since it contains green tea. You can drink this in the evening without worrying about staying awake.

How to Make a Medicine Ball at Home

The Medicine Ball Starbucks price ranges from $4 to $6 depending on size and location. If you’re a frequent drinker, making it at home can save you serious money.

What You’ll Need:

Ingredients:

• 1 bag Jade Citrus Mint tea (or any mint green tea)
• 1 bag Peach Tranquility tea (or peach herbal tea)
• 1 cup hot water
• 1/2 cup lemonade (store-bought or fresh)
• 1-2 tablespoons honey
• Optional: Fresh lemon slice

Equipment:

• Kettle or pot for boiling water
• Mug (at least 16 oz)
• Small pot for heating lemonade

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Boil water: Heat water to about 175°F for green tea (not fully boiling)
2. Steep the teas: Place both tea bags in your mug and add 1 cup hot water. Steep for 3-5 minutes.
3. Heat the lemonade: While tea steeps, warm your lemonade in a small pot or microwave. Don’t boil it—just heat it until steaming.
4. Combine: Remove tea bags and add the steamed lemonade to your mug.
5. Add honey: Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of honey, adjusting to taste.
6. Garnish: Add a fresh lemon slice if desired.

Where to Buy the Teas:

You can find Teavana teas (the brand Starbucks uses) on Amazon or at some grocery stores. Alternatively:

• Jade Citrus Mint = any citrus mint green tea works
• Peach Tranquility = look for peach herbal tea blends

Making it at home costs about $1 per serving versus $5 at Starbucks. That’s significant savings if you drink these regularly during cold season.

Best Times to Drink a Medicine Ball

The Medicine Ball Starbucks works best in specific situations:

When You’re Coming Down With Something

At the first sign of a sore throat or congestion, grab a Medicine Ball. The warmth and ingredients can provide immediate comfort.

During Cold and Flu Season

Many people make this a preventive ritual. While it won’t prevent illness, the immune-supporting ingredients don’t hurt.

For Allergy Relief

The mint and steam can help with allergy-related congestion. Some people find it just as helpful for allergies as for colds.

On Cold Days

Even when you’re perfectly healthy, the Medicine Ball makes a cozy drink on chilly mornings or evenings.

Before Bed

The low caffeine content and calming chamomile make this suitable as an evening drink when you’re sick.

Medicine Ball vs. Other Starbucks Wellness Drinks

Starbucks offers several other drinks that people reach for when feeling under the weather:

Medicine Ball vs. Mint Majesty

• Mint Majesty: Purely peppermint tea, no citrus or peach
• Pros: Stronger mint flavor, zero caffeine
• Cons: Less complex flavor, no vitamin C from lemon
• Best for: Those who want pure mint without sweetness

Medicine Ball vs. Jade Citrus Mint Tea (Solo)

• Solo Jade Citrus: Just one tea, not the combination
• Pros: Lighter, more refreshing, less sweet
• Cons: Less soothing, missing the honey-peach elements
• Best for: When you want something lighter

Medicine Ball vs. London Fog

• London Fog: Earl Grey tea with vanilla and steamed milk
• Pros: Creamier, more dessert-like
• Cons: Higher calories, no cold-symptom benefits
• Best for: Comfort drinking when you’re not sick

The Medicine Ball stands out because it specifically combines ingredients known for symptom relief.

Common Medicine Ball Mistakes to Avoid

Ordering It Too Hot

If you ask for “extra hot,” you might burn your throat, which is counterproductive when it’s already sore. Stick with the standard temperature.

Drinking It Too Fast

Sip slowly to let the steam work its magic on your sinuses. Gulping defeats half the purpose.

Expecting It to Cure You

The Medicine Ball Starbucks provides symptom relief, not a cure. You still need rest, fluids, and time to recover.

Forgetting to Hydrate Otherwise

Don’t rely solely on the Medicine Ball for hydration. Drink plenty of water throughout the day too.

Not Customizing for Your Needs

If you find it too sweet, too lemony, or not minty enough, speak up. Baristas can adjust it.

What Baristas Think About the Medicine Ball

As someone who’s talked to many Starbucks employees, I can tell you the Medicine Ball gets mixed reactions behind the counter.

Most baristas don’t mind making it—it’s actually pretty straightforward. However, during peak flu season, when everyone and their mother orders one, it can slow down the line because the lemonade needs to be steamed separately.

Some baristas appreciate that it’s a functional drink that genuinely helps people. Others get frustrated when sick customers come into the store spreading germs (understandable concern).

Pro tip: If you’re contagious, use the mobile app to order ahead, then grab your drink without lingering. Baristas will appreciate your consideration.

Is the Medicine Ball Worth the Hype?

Here’s my honest take: the Medicine Ball Starbucks lives up to its reputation as a comforting drink when you’re sick. It won’t work miracles, but it does exactly what it promises—provides soothing relief for sore throats and congestion.

The combination of warm liquid, mint, honey, and citrus hits all the right notes. The price feels worth it when you’re miserable and just want something to make you feel better.

That said, making it at home is definitely more economical if you get sick often or want to drink it regularly. The homemade version tastes nearly identical and costs a fraction of the price.

Whether you order it at Starbucks or make it yourself, the Medicine Ball deserves its place as a cold-weather and sick-day staple.

Conclusion

The Medicine Ball Starbucks—officially the Honey Citrus Mint Tea—has earned its reputation as the go-to drink when you’re feeling under the weather. With its soothing blend of mint, citrus, honey, and herbal tea, it provides genuine comfort during cold and flu season.

Now you know exactly what’s in it, why it helps, how to order it with your preferred customizations, and even how to make your own version at home. Whether you’re battling a cold, soothing allergy symptoms, or just want something warm and comforting, the Medicine Ball delivers.

Next time you feel that telltale throat tickle, you know what to do. Have you tried the Medicine Ball yet? What’s your favorite customization?

FAQs About Medicine Ball Starbucks

1. What is a Medicine Ball at Starbucks officially called?

The official name is Honey Citrus Mint Tea. However, most customers and baristas still call it the Medicine Ball, and ordering it by either name works perfectly fine.

2. Does the Medicine Ball actually help when you’re sick?

While it’s not a cure, the Medicine Ball contains ingredients that can help with symptoms. The honey soothes sore throats, mint helps with congestion, and the warmth provides comfort. Many people report feeling better after drinking it.

3. How much does a Medicine Ball cost at Starbucks?

Prices vary by location, but typically range from $3.95 for a tall to $5.45 for a venti. Prices may be higher in certain markets or airports.

4. Can I order a Medicine Ball through the Starbucks app?

Yes! Search for “Honey Citrus Mint Tea” in the app. You can customize it with your preferred modifications and order ahead for pickup.

5. Is there caffeine in the Medicine Ball?

Yes, but very little. The Jade Citrus Mint tea contains green tea, which has about 16-25mg of caffeine in a grande. That’s much less than coffee (about 165mg) or even black tea.

6. Can I drink a Medicine Ball while pregnant?

Check with your doctor first. The drink contains honey (which is safe for adults), low caffeine, and herbal teas. Some pregnant women avoid certain herbal teas, so medical guidance is best.

7. How do I make the Medicine Ball less sweet?

Ask for fewer pumps of honey (try just 1 pump instead of the standard 2-3), request light lemonade with more hot water, or order it with no sweetener and add your own.

8. Can I get a Medicine Ball iced?

You can request it iced, but it defeats the purpose. The warmth and steam are part of what makes it effective for cold symptoms. An iced version would just be flavored tea.

9. Is the Medicine Ball vegan?

No, the standard recipe contains honey. However, you can request it without honey and add agave or another vegan sweetener instead.

10. Can kids drink the Medicine Ball?

Yes, the minimal caffeine and gentle ingredients make it suitable for children. You might want to order it at kids’ temperature and possibly less sweet for younger children.

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