The Story of the Medicine Ball Tea
The Medicine Ball tea began as a customer-created "secret menu" item that gained popularity on social media for its reputation as a comforting drink for when feeling sick. Its widespread demand led Starbucks to officially add it to their menu in 2017 as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea. Despite being on the official menu, the nickname "Medicine Ball" is still commonly used.
The Recipe: Original vs. Current
The distinctive flavor of the Honey Citrus Mint Tea comes from a specific combination of ingredients. The original recipe used two different Teavana tea bags, but Starbucks updated the recipe around late 2024 or early 2025, simplifying the tea component. Here is a comparison of the key ingredients:
| Feature | Original Recipe (Pre-2025) | Current Recipe (Post-2025) |
|---|---|---|
| Tea Bags | 1 Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and 1 Teavana Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea. | A single proprietary blend, often described by baristas as a chamomile mint blossom tea. |
| Liquid Base | Half hot water, half steamed lemonade. | Half hot water, half steamed lemonade. |
| Sweetener | Honey blend. | Honey blend. |
| Optional Add-in | Pump of peppermint syrup. | Pump of peppermint syrup. |
How to Order the Honey Citrus Mint Tea
To ensure you get the correct drink, order it by its official name, "Honey Citrus Mint Tea," though "Medicine Ball" is often understood. You can find it under "Hot Teas" on the menu or app. Specify your size and customize with adjustments to lemonade or honey, or add peppermint syrup.
Make Your Own Medicine Ball at Home
To make a copycat version, especially if you miss the original flavor profile before Starbucks changed their tea blends, you can use comparable teas. Since the original Teavana blends are discontinued, use mint green and peach herbal teas from other brands. A simple recipe includes hot water, steamed lemonade, honey, mint green tea, and peach herbal tea. Instructions involve heating the liquids, steeping the teas, and adding honey and optional peppermint extract. More details can be found on {Link: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/starbucksfans/posts/270980959024619/}, {Link: Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/starbs/posts/10162083135110180/}.
Soothing Comfort, Not a Cure
The Honey Citrus Mint Tea is not a medicine. However, the combination of warm liquid, honey, and vitamin C from the lemonade can provide comforting relief for symptoms like a sore throat and congestion. The warmth and flavor can also offer a sense of comfort when you're feeling unwell.
Conclusion: A Fan-Favorite Legacy
The Honey Citrus Mint Tea, widely known as the "Medicine Ball," has become a beloved Starbucks drink since its addition to the official menu. While the recipe has been updated, its appeal as a comforting, warm beverage remains. Whether you order it in-store, through the app, or make it at home, this tea continues to provide a soothing experience. You can find official menu details on the Starbucks website.
Common Tea Customizations at Starbucks
- For Less Sugar: Request a "splash of lemonade" instead of the standard half-water/half-lemonade.
- For Extra Flavor: Ask for an extra pump of peppermint syrup.
- For Added Warmth: Add a dash of cinnamon powder.
- For a Caffeine-Free Option: While the standard includes green tea, making your own decaf version at home is a reliable way to ensure it is caffeine-free.
