The Viral Rise of the Medicine Ball
The story of the Starbucks Medicine Ball is a testament to the power of social media and customer innovation. Initially, the drink was a custom concoction created by customers seeking a soothing beverage, particularly during cold and flu season. It combined several existing Starbucks ingredients in a specific, comforting way. The recipe spread like wildfire online, shared across platforms like Instagram and Reddit, where it was often called the "Cold Buster" or simply the "Medicine Ball". Baristas, seeing the demand for this unofficial drink, quickly learned the recipe by heart. Its immense popularity led Starbucks' then-president and COO, Kevin Johnson, to officially add the beverage to the menu in 2017 under a new, branded name: Honey Citrus Mint Tea. While the drink moved from the 'secret' to the 'official' menu, its affectionate nickname has stuck, and most seasoned baristas will still recognize the request for a "Medicine Ball".
How to Order the Honey Citrus Mint Tea (aka Medicine Ball)
Ordering the drink is straightforward, but asking for it by its official name is the most reliable method. The process is simple whether you are in-store, at the drive-thru, or using the Starbucks app.
- In-Store or Drive-Thru: Walk up to the counter or drive-thru speaker and ask for the "Honey Citrus Mint Tea." Most baristas will recognize the nickname "Medicine Ball," but using the official name ensures accuracy, especially with newer staff.
- On the Starbucks App: Open the app and navigate to the "Hot Teas" category. Find and select the "Honey Citrus Mint Tea" option. You can customize the drink from there, adjusting the lemonade, honey, and adding any other ingredients.
The Official Recipe: What's Inside?
The standard build of a Honey Citrus Mint Tea includes a specific combination of ingredients that creates its signature soothing flavor. Starbucks lists the standard ingredients and notes that the drink is now a regular menu fixture.
- Teas: The drink uses a blend of two tea bags: Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea. These provide the key minty, citrus, and peach notes.
- Lemonade: Steamed lemonade is the citrus base, giving the beverage its signature tart and sweet flavor.
- Hot Water: To balance the acidity and sweetness of the lemonade, a portion of the drink is hot water.
- Honey Blend: The final touch is the Honey Blend, which adds sweetness and a comforting warmth.
Customizing Your Soothing Drink
Because the drink is now an official menu item, you have full control over customizations. Baristas are happy to adjust the drink to your preferences, making it less sweet or adding a different flavor profile.
Here are some popular customization options:
- Adjust Sweetness: Ask for fewer pumps of the Honey Blend or less lemonade to reduce the sugar content. For an even lower-sugar option, ask for just a splash of lemonade.
- Add Extra Mint: While the Jade Citrus Mint tea provides a minty flavor, some people love an extra boost. A pump of peppermint syrup can be added for a more intense mint sensation.
- Extra Tea: If you prefer a stronger tea flavor, you can request an additional tea bag.
- Go Caffeine-Free: While the Jade Citrus Mint green tea has a small amount of caffeine, you can ask to substitute it for another herbal tea to make the drink entirely caffeine-free. However, be aware that the flavor profile will change.
Medicine Ball vs. Honey Citrus Mint Tea: A Comparison
| Feature | "Medicine Ball" (Unofficial) | "Honey Citrus Mint Tea" (Official) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Dependent on barista knowledge; not on menu board | A permanent menu item, available in-store and on app |
| Ordering Method | Mention ingredients or common nickname | Ask for by official name |
| Consistency | Could vary by barista; a "secret menu" item | Standardized recipe with consistent preparation |
| Customization | Based on barista's knowledge and stock | Easy to request modifications via app or verbally |
| Name Recognition | A popular nickname among regulars and online | The official, listed name recognized by all Starbucks staff |
Important Considerations: Not a Medical Cure
While the Medicine Ball is beloved for its soothing qualities, it is important to remember that it is not a cure for any illness. Its comforting effects come from the warmth of the drink, the hydrating hot water, and the soothing qualities of honey and citrus. For serious medical concerns, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional. Additionally, be mindful of the sugar content. A standard Grande size contains 30 grams of sugar, which is something to consider if you are managing your sugar intake.
Conclusion
In short, Starbucks still carries the beloved "Medicine Ball" under its official name, Honey Citrus Mint Tea. What began as a customer creation has earned its permanent spot on the menu, ensuring that you can easily order this comforting blend of mint, peach, lemonade, and honey whenever you feel the need for a warm, soothing drink. The next time you're craving this iconic beverage, you can confidently ask for it by its official name or simply look for it in the "Hot Teas" section of the app.
For more information on Starbucks' official beverage offerings, you can visit the Starbucks website.
