Demystifying the Term: A Tale of Two "Medicine Balls"
The phrase "medicine ball" is a prime example of a term with two vastly different meanings, leading to frequent misunderstandings. On one hand, it refers to a weighted exercise ball used in fitness routines for strength and conditioning. On the other, it is the unofficial and highly popular nickname for a tea blend served at Starbucks, known officially as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea. This article aims to clarify this mix-up, exploring both concepts and providing a guide to the drink that has become a viral sensation and a go-to comfort for many.
The Fitness Equipment: A Weighted Exercise Tool
A traditional medicine ball is a solid, weighted ball, varying in size and weight, used in athletic training and rehabilitation. It is designed for strength training, explosive power, and core workouts. It does not contain liquid and cannot be ingested. It can be thrown, slammed, or used for resistance training to build muscle mass and increase athletic performance. Common exercises include Russian twists, squats with a press, and overhead throws. The term "medicine" in this context dates back to ancient Greece and refers to the ball's use in medicine and physical therapy for health and wellness, not for drinking.
The Soothing Beverage: A Tea for Your Cold
The "Medicine Ball" drink gained viral popularity as a supposed cold remedy from a Starbucks "secret menu" before officially joining the menu as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea. It is a hot beverage crafted to soothe sore throats and provide comfort during cold and flu season. The drink combines two tea bags (Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility), steamed lemonade, hot water, and a touch of honey. While it won't cure a cold, its warmth and ingredients can offer temporary relief. The steam helps to clear congestion, and the honey coats and soothes an irritated throat.
A Comparison of the Two "Medicine Balls"
| Feature | Weighted Exercise Medicine Ball | Honey Citrus Mint Tea (aka "Medicine Ball") |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Exercise, strength, resistance training | Soothing cold symptoms, comfort, hydration |
| Composition | Weighted sphere, often made of rubber or leather | Hot water, steamed lemonade, tea bags, honey |
| Key Benefit | Improves physical fitness and muscle tone | Soothes sore throat, provides warmth, clears sinuses |
| Consumption | Used for physical workouts (not consumable) | Drinkable hot beverage |
| Source | Gyms, sporting goods stores | Starbucks, homemade recipes |
| Nickname Origin | Historical use in medicine and therapy | Viral social media sensation and customer trend |
How to Make a Homemade "Medicine Ball" Drink
For those who want to enjoy this comforting beverage without a trip to the coffee shop, a homemade version is simple to prepare and allows for customization. This DIY recipe is a cost-effective way to get relief when feeling under the weather. The recipe below outlines the essential ingredients and steps for a perfect soothing cup.
Ingredients:
- 1 bag of green citrus mint tea
- 1 bag of peach herbal tea
- 8 oz of hot water
- 8 oz of lemonade (can be steamed)
- 1-2 tablespoons of honey (to taste)
- Optional: a slice of lemon or a sprig of fresh mint for garnish
Instructions:
- Heat the Water and Lemonade: In a saucepan or microwave, heat the water and lemonade until hot, but not boiling.
- Steep the Teas: Place one green citrus mint tea bag and one peach herbal tea bag in a large mug. Pour the hot liquid over the tea bags.
- Add Honey: Stir in the honey until it is fully dissolved.
- Steep: Let the tea steep for about 5 minutes to fully infuse the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the tea bags, garnish with a lemon slice or mint if desired, and enjoy while warm.
Customizing Your Honey Citrus Mint Tea
- Add a Peppermint Boost: For extra sinus-clearing power, add a pump of peppermint syrup or a sprig of fresh peppermint to the brew.
- Adjust Sweetness: Control the amount of sugar by using less lemonade and less honey, or opt for a low-sugar lemonade alternative.
- Boost Immunity: Add a slice of fresh ginger for its natural anti-inflammatory properties, or a pinch of cinnamon for extra warmth.
- Vary the Tea: Experiment with different herbal teas to find a combination that suits your taste. Chamomile is another great option for its calming effects.
Soothing Versus Strengthening: The Crucial Difference
The fundamental difference between the two terms comes down to their function: one is for internal soothing, and the other is for external strengthening. Attempting to get a drink from a weighted exercise ball would be impossible and nonsensical, just as trying to lift a mug of tea for strength training would be ineffective. The viral nickname for the tea, however, has proven a powerful force in bringing comfort to many during times of illness.
It is important to manage expectations and understand that the tea, despite its nickname, is not a medical cure. It provides temporary, symptomatic relief through its warmth and comforting ingredients, not pharmacological intervention. For serious or persistent cold and flu symptoms, consulting a healthcare professional is always recommended.
Conclusion
In short, the query "what does a medicine ball do to drink?" is based on a misunderstanding of a viral, social media-fueled nickname for a popular Starbucks beverage. The term "medicine ball" refers to a weighted exercise tool, while the drink is officially the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, known for its soothing properties when you're feeling under the weather. Recognizing the distinction is key to avoiding confusion. While the gym equipment builds physical strength, the honey citrus mint tea offers a warm, comforting hug in a mug, providing relief for a sore throat and sniffles. So next time you're feeling a cold coming on, skip the gym equipment and brew yourself a warm, soothing cup of the real "Medicine Ball" tea. For a great DIY recipe, you can find one on A Beautiful Mess: Starbucks Medicine Ball - A Beautiful Mess.
