How to Make a Starbucks Medicine Ball: Easy Copycat Recipe

If you’re feeling under the weather or simply craving a warm, soothing drink, the Starbucks Medicine Ball might be your perfect remedy. This comforting beverage, also known as Honey Citrus Mint Tea, has become a customer favorite for its refreshing blend of flavors and its ability to bring relief on cold, dreary days. Originally a secret menu item, it gained so much popularity that Starbucks added it to their official menu.

But did you know you can easily recreate this delicious drink at home? With just a few simple ingredients like minty green tea, peachy herbal tea, honey, and lemonade, you can skip the coffee shop line and enjoy this cosy treat anytime you like. Whether you’re looking to save money, customise the flavours, or just love a good DIY recipe, this Starbucks Medicine Ball copycat is as easy as it is delicious.

What is a Starbucks Medicine Ball?

The Starbucks Medicine Ball, officially known as Honey Citrus Mint Tea, started as a customer-created secret menu item th

It became so popular that it earned a permanent place on Starbucks’ menu in 2017. This soothing beverage emerged from customers seeking comfort during cold and flu season.

The drink combines:

• Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea
• Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea
• Hot water
• Steamed lemonade
• Honey blend
• Optional: Peppermint syrup

Originally ordered through word-of-mouth as the “Medicine Ball” or “Cold Buster,” Starbucks formalized the name to Honey Citrus Mint Tea while keeping the same beloved recipe. The drink quickly became a customer favorite, with stores reportedly making up to 20 orders daily during cold season.

Health-Supporting Benefits

The drink’s popularity stems from its comforting properties:

• Vitamin C from lemonade supports immune function
• Honey helps relieve sore throats and contains natural antibacterial properties.
• Green tea provides antioxidants and gentle caffeine
• Mint helps clear nasal passages and aids digestion
• Steam helps with congestion relief
• Herbs in peach tea offer calming effects

The Benefits of Drinking This Tea for Colds and Comfort

The Starbucks Medicine Ball isn’t just a delightful beverage; it’s also packed with ingredients that can help soothe symptoms of a cold and provide much-needed comfort when you’re feeling under the weather. Here’s a closer look at how each component contributes to its soothing and health-promoting qualities:

1. Eases Sore Throat and Congestion

The combination of hot water and steam from the tea helps to open nasal passages and relieve congestion, making it easier to breathe. The warmth of the drink also soothes a scratchy or sore throat, providing immediate relief.

2. Boosts Hydration and Immunity

When you’re sick, staying hydrated is crucial, and this tea makes it enjoyable. The added lemonade provides a gentle dose of vitamin C, which supports immune function and helps your body fight off illness.

3. Combines the Power of Herbal Teas

• Jade Citrus Mint Tea: This green tea blend contains antioxidants that may help combat free radicals and support overall health. The mint also has a refreshing quality that can help clear sinuses and ease headaches.
• Peach Tranquility Tea: This caffeine-free herbal tea is calming and gentle, perfect for promoting relaxation and comfort. It contains chamomile, recognized for its calming effects.

4. Honey’s Natural Healing Properties

Honey isn’t just a sweetener; it’s a natural remedy for many cold symptoms. Its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties can help reduce throat irritation and may even provide mild relief from coughing.

5. Calming and Comforting Effect

Sometimes the biggest benefit of a drink like this is the emotional comfort it provides. The warm, fragrant blend of teas, honey, and citrus creates a soothing experience that can help you relax and unwind, whether you’re fighting off a cold or just need a moment of calm in your day.

By combining these beneficial ingredients into one delicious drink, the Starbucks Medicine Ball becomes more than just a tasty treat—it’s a little cup of wellness that you can enjoy anytime. Whether you’re nursing a cold or simply looking for a comforting beverage, this tea has your back.

Ingredients for a Copycat Medicine Ball Recipe

Creating a Starbucks Medicine Ball at home is surprisingly simple, and the best part is that you can easily find all the ingredients at your local grocery store. Here’s a detailed breakdown of everything you’ll need to recreate this soothing and flavorful tea:

Here’s a table summarizing the ingredients for a Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe:

Ingredient	Description	Substitutions/Notes
Jade Citrus Mint Tea	A green tea blend with refreshing mint flavors and a light caffeine boost.	Substitute with any green tea with mint or standalone peppermint tea.
Peach Tranquility Tea	A caffeine-free herbal tea with sweet peach and calming chamomile flavors.	Use any peach-flavored herbal tea, preferably with chamomile.
Lemonade	Adds tangy citrus flavor and vitamin C for a refreshing and healthy twist.	Use store-bought or homemade lemonade (mix lemon juice, water, and sugar/honey).
Honey	Natural sweetener with throat-soothing and antimicrobial properties.	Substitute with agave syrup or maple syrup for a vegan option.
Hot Water	Base for steeping the teas and blending all ingredients.	Use water just below boiling (around 175°F/80°C) to avoid bitterness in green tea.
Optional Additions	Fresh ginger, cinnamon stick, or mint leaves for extra flavor and health benefits.	Customize based on your preferences to enhance taste and aroma.

This table provides a clear and organized view of the ingredients, substitutions, and customization options for you!

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Medicine Ball Tea

Detailed Instructions with Measurements for Each Ingredient

Making a Starbucks Medicine Ball at home is incredibly easy and requires just a few simple steps. Here’s a breakdown of the process with precise measurements to ensure your homemade version tastes just as delightful as the original.

Learn how to make the perfect Medicine Ball with this detailed step-by-step guide from The Spruce Eats. Enjoy a soothing drink any time!

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

You’ll need the following:

• Jade Citrus Mint tea bag (1 bag): This is a green tea with a refreshing mint flavor. You can use other mint green teas if this specific brand isn’t available.
• Peach Tranquility tea bag (1 bag): A caffeine-free herbal tea with a sweet, fruity flavor. Any peach-flavored tea will work as a substitute.
• Hot water (1 cup): Boil fresh water for the base of your tea.
• Lemonade (½ cup): Use store-bought lemonade or make your own for a fresher taste.
• Honey (1–2 tablespoons): Adjust the amount based on your preferred sweetness level.

Step 2: Brew the Tea

1. In a large mug or heatproof glass, place the Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility tea bags.
2. Pour 1 cup of hot water over the tea bags and let them steep for 3–5 minutes. For stronger flavors, steep for up to 7 minutes.
3. Once the tea has steeped, gently remove the tea bags. You can lightly press them with a spoon to release more flavor.

Step 3: Warm the Lemonade

While your tea is steeping, warm ½ cup of lemonade in a small saucepan or microwave. Heat it until it’s warm but not boiling. This helps blend the flavors better with the tea.

Step 4: Combine Tea and Lemonade

1. Pour the warmed lemonade into the mug with your brewed tea. Stir gently to combine.

Step 5: Sweeten with Honey

1. Add 1–2 tablespoons of honey, depending on your taste preference. Stir well until the honey is completely dissolved. Honey not only sweetens the drink but also enhances its soothing properties.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Give the drink a final stir and taste. Adjust the sweetness or lemonade-to-water ratio if needed.
2. Serve the Starbucks Medicine Ball hot and enjoy its comforting, refreshing flavors!

Optional Tip:

For more delicious ideas for using up tea or coffee, check out these mouthwatering recipe collections:

• the Dude Perfect Smoothie
• the Perfect Coffee Loophole Recipe

If you want to elevate your drink, consider frothing a small amount of milk and adding it on top for a latte-like touch. A sprinkle of lemon zest or a sprig of mint can also make it feel extra special.

With these simple steps, you’ll have a cozy, delicious Starbucks Medicine Ball ready to sip and enjoy!

Tips for Brewing the Teas for the Best Flavor

Brewing the perfect cup of tea is key to achieving the rich, soothing flavors that make the Starbucks Medicine Ball so comforting. Here are some tips to ensure your teas come out perfectly every time:

1. Use Fresh, Filtered Water
   The quality of water plays a huge role in the taste of your tea. Always use fresh, filtered water to avoid any off-tastes that tap water might introduce. The cleaner the water, the better your tea will taste, allowing the subtle notes of the Jade Citrus Mint and Peach Tranquility teas to shine through.
2. Proper Steeping Temperature
   For the best flavor, you need to steep the teas at the right temperature.
   • Jade Citrus Mint Tea: This green tea should be steeped at around 175°F (80°C) for about 2-3 minutes. If the water is too hot, it can make the tea taste bitter.
   • Peach Tranquility Tea: This herbal tea can handle slightly hotter water, around 190°F (88°C), and should be steeped for 4-5 minutes to fully extract its sweet, floral flavors.
3. Don’t Oversteep
   Oversteeping can cause bitterness or overly strong flavors, especially with green teas like the Jade Citrus Mint. Make sure to remove the tea bags after the suggested steeping time to ensure a balanced and smooth flavor. Set a timer if necessary!
4. Pre-warm Your Mug
   A simple but effective trick is to pre-warm your mug with hot water before adding your brewed tea. This helps maintain the temperature of your tea for longer, so it stays nice and hot while you enjoy it.
5. Balance the Flavors
   The key to a perfectly brewed Starbucks Medicine Ball lies in the balance between the minty freshness of the Jade Citrus Mint tea and the sweet, fruity notes of the Peach Tranquility tea. Adjust the steeping times if needed to create a harmonious blend. You can always play around with the ratio of the two teas to suit your taste—more peach for sweetness or more citrus mint for a refreshing kick.
6. Optional: Double Steep for Extra Flavor
   If you prefer a stronger tea base, consider brewing the teas for a slightly longer time or using two tea bags per serving. However, be careful not to overdo it, as this might overpower the subtle flavors that make the Medicine Ball so delicious.

How to Mix Honey and Lemonade Without Altering the Taste

One of the key elements that make the Starbucks Medicine Ball so soothing is the balance of flavors—especially the sweetness from honey and the tanginess of lemonade. But it’s important to mix them in just the right way to avoid overpowering the delicate flavors of the tea. Here’s how to achieve the perfect balance:

1. Use the Right Honey
   Not all honey is created equal. For a smooth and subtle sweetness that won’t overpower the drink, opt for a mild, liquid honey, such as clover or acacia honey. These types have a gentle, floral flavor that complements the citrus without clashing with the tea’s natural flavors. Stronger, more robust honeys like buckwheat can add an overpowering taste, so it’s best to avoid them.
2. Warm the Honey for Easier Mixing
   Honey is sticky, and when you add it to cold or room-temperature lemonade, it can sometimes settle at the bottom, making it harder to incorporate. To ensure the honey mixes well and dissolves evenly into the lemonade, warm it up slightly by placing it in a small microwave-safe bowl and heating it for 5-10 seconds. Alternatively, you can stir the honey into hot water to create a honey syrup, which blends better with the lemonade and tea.
3. Add Lemonade Gradually
   When mixing honey with lemonade, it’s best to add the lemonade in small increments. If you pour it all at once, the acidity of the lemon juice might cause the honey to crystallize or become too sweet. Start by adding just a splash of lemonade into the honey and stir well, tasting as you go. Once the honey is fully dissolved, you can add more lemonade to taste. This gradual method helps preserve the ideal balance of sweet and tangy.
4. Use Fresh Lemon Juice
   Fresh lemon juice enhances the flavor of the lemonade and ensures that the tanginess complements the honey’s sweetness without overwhelming it. Bottled lemon juice can have a more artificial flavor, which might change the overall taste of your Medicine Ball. Fresh lemon juice gives a bright, refreshing zing that pairs perfectly with the minty teas and honey.
5. Stir to Combine Before Adding to the Tea
   Once you’ve mixed the honey and lemonade, give it a good stir to ensure everything is well-combined. This will ensure the flavors are evenly distributed throughout the tea, without the lemonade and honey separating when you add the hot water or tea.

Optional Step: Frothing the Top for a Latte-Like Feel

For those who enjoy the creamy, velvety texture of a latte, frothing the top of your Starbucks Medicine Ball tea is a simple yet luxurious touch. Adding a frothy layer not only enhances the visual appeal of your drink but also elevates the overall drinking experience, making it feel even more indulgent. Here’s how to achieve that perfect frothy finish:

Why Froth Your Tea?

Frothing creates a rich, smooth texture that contrasts beautifully with the refreshing, fruity flavors of the tea. It also adds a level of creaminess that can complement the slight tartness of the lemonade and the sweetness of the honey. By adding a layer of froth, you’ll transform your homemade Medicine Ball into a drink that’s as satisfying as any coffee shop version.

How to Froth the Tea

1. Use a Milk Frother: The easiest way to froth the top of your Medicine Ball is by using an electric milk frother. Simply heat your choice of milk or milk alternative (like oat milk or almond milk) and pour it into the frother. Froth it until it achieves a smooth, airy texture.
2. Whisk by Hand: If you don’t have a milk frother, you can still achieve a frothy top by whisking the milk vigorously by hand in a bowl. Heat the milk gently on the stove or in the microwave before whisking it to create a foam. Once it’s frothy, pour it over your prepared Medicine Ball tea.
3. Blender Method: Another option is using a blender. Pour your heated milk into the blender and pulse it for a few seconds until it froths up. This method works best for larger batches but can be great for those who prefer a frothy drink in a hurry.
4. Add a Dash of Vanilla or Cinnamon (Optional): For an extra touch of flavor, you can sprinkle some vanilla extract or cinnamon into the milk before frothing. This adds a subtle sweetness and spice that pairs beautifully with the citrusy, minty flavors of the Medicine Ball tea.

Serving the Frothy Medicine Ball

Once your tea is prepared and froth is ready, carefully pour the frothed milk over the tea. You can use a spoon to hold back the foam while pouring, ensuring that the frothed milk rests gently on top of the tea for that signature latte look. Finish with a dusting of cinnamon or nutmeg for an extra bit of flair.

Benefits of Frothing

Not only does frothing add a creamy texture, but it also helps integrate the flavors better. The milk’s natural sweetness mixes with the minty, citrusy base of the tea, creating a balanced and comforting drink. Additionally, frothing the milk introduces tiny air bubbles, which can help lighten the drink, making it feel less heavy and more refreshing.

This optional step is perfect for those who love the combination of smoothness and texture, and it’s an easy way to elevate your homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball recipe to a cafe-worthy treat.

Tips to Customize Your Medicine Ball Recipe

While the classic Starbucks Medicine Ball is loved for its comforting, citrusy, and minty flavors, one of the best parts about making it at home is the ability to customize it to fit your specific taste preferences and health goals. Whether you want a caffeine-free version, more health benefits, or a refreshing twist for warmer days, these tips will help you make your perfect Medicine Ball.

How to Make It Caffeine-Free by Swapping Teas

The original Starbucks Medicine Ball uses a blend of Jade Citrus Mint tea, which contains green tea and therefore caffeine. If you want to enjoy the soothing benefits of this drink without the caffeine, it’s simple to make a caffeine-free version.

• Swap the Jade Citrus Mint tea for a caffeine-free herbal tea: Choose a mint-based tea that’s naturally caffeine-free, such as peppermint or spearmint tea. These will still provide that fresh, cooling sensation without the jitters from caffeine.
• Substitute with other calming herbal teas: Consider using chamomile tea or lemon balm for a calming, caffeine-free alternative. These herbs are known for their relaxing properties, making the tea perfect for evening enjoyment.
• Herbal blends: You can also experiment with tea blends that include flowers like hibiscus, lavender, or rose petals to add unique flavors and completely remove caffeine while still enjoying the tea’s therapeutic effects.

Adding Extra Lemon or Ginger for More Health Benefits

The Starbucks Medicine Ball is already a healthful drink with its combination of honey, citrus, and mint. However, if you want to enhance the drink’s health benefits even more, here are a couple of simple additions:

• Lemon: While the original recipe uses lemonade, you can squeeze in some extra fresh lemon juice for an additional vitamin C boost. Lemon is known for its immune-boosting properties, and the extra tartness can brighten the flavor, balancing the sweetness of the honey and lemonade.
• Ginger: Adding fresh ginger is another great way to boost the health benefits. Ginger has powerful anti-inflammatory and digestive properties, making it an ideal addition, especially when you’re feeling under the weather. Grate a small amount of fresh ginger and add it to the hot water before brewing the tea, or even stir in ginger syrup if you prefer a smoother texture. The warmth and spice from ginger also complement the minty and citrus flavors beautifully.
• Turmeric: For an additional health boost, you can add a pinch of turmeric. This vibrant golden spice is praised for its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, and it pairs surprisingly well with the lemon and honey, giving the drink a new depth of flavor.

Using Alternative Sweeteners Like Agave or Maple Syrup

For those looking to adjust the sweetness of their Medicine Ball while making it healthier, swapping out traditional sugar for natural sweeteners can offer great results.

• Agave Syrup: Agave is a sweetener derived from the agave plant, and it is much sweeter than regular sugar, so you’ll need less to achieve the same level of sweetness. Agave is also lower on the glycemic index, meaning it won’t spike your blood sugar as quickly as other sweeteners. A small drizzle in your Medicine Ball can help balance the tartness of the lemon and the herbal tea flavors.
• Maple Syrup: Another great alternative is pure maple syrup, which adds a unique, rich sweetness to the drink. Maple syrup is also packed with antioxidants, and the natural flavor pairs well with the honey and mint in the Medicine Ball. Use pure maple syrup (not the imitation kind) for the best taste and health benefits.
• Stevia or Monk Fruit: For a calorie-free option, you can opt for stevia or monk fruit sweetener. Both of these options are plant-based and can provide sweetness without adding any extra calories or sugar. Stevia is often a bit more potent, so you’ll need just a drop or two to sweeten your tea.

Turning It into an Iced Version for Warmer Days

The Starbucks Medicine Ball is typically served hot, making it the perfect drink for cold weather or when you’re feeling sick. However, as the temperature rises, an iced version can be just as refreshing while retaining all the comforting flavors.

• Iced Medicine Ball: To create a chilled version, brew the tea and let it cool to room temperature. Once it’s cool, pour it over a glass of ice, then top with chilled lemonade. If you want to keep the tea from getting watered down as the ice melts, consider freezing some lemonade or tea in ice cube trays ahead of time to use in place of regular ice cubes.
• Refreshing twists: You can experiment by adding some fresh mint leaves or even citrus slices like orange or lime for a burst of flavor. This adds a refreshing twist that’s perfect for sipping on a hot day.
• Make it a Tea Latte: For a creamier iced version, you can froth some milk and pour it over the iced tea. The result is an iced Medicine Ball latte, with the same great flavors and a cool, creamy texture that will be perfect for warmer months.

By customizing your Medicine Ball recipe with these simple adjustments, you can enjoy a drink that’s perfectly tailored to your taste, dietary preferences, and health needs. Whether you’re opting for a caffeine-free version, boosting your health with extra ingredients, or making it a cool treat for summer, these tips ensure that your homemade Medicine Ball will be just as enjoyable as the Starbucks original.

Why You Should Make Your Own Starbucks Medicine Ball at Home

There are many reasons why making your own Starbucks Medicine Ball at home can be a rewarding choice, and not just for the enjoyment of the drink itself. By recreating this soothing beverage in your kitchen, you unlock several advantages that can enhance your overall experience, from saving money to customizing it to fit your unique tastes. Let’s dive into why this copycat recipe is worth trying:

Cost Savings Compared to Buying It at Starbucks

One of the most immediate benefits of making your own Starbucks Medicine Ball is the cost savings. While a single Medicine Ball at Starbucks may cost around $4 to $5, you can make multiple servings of the same drink for a fraction of the price at home. By purchasing the ingredients in bulk—like tea bags, honey, and lemonade—you’ll have enough to make several cups, meaning each serving will cost you much less than buying it at the store. Over time, this adds up to significant savings, especially if you find yourself reaching for this comforting drink regularly.

Control Over the Sweetness and Flavor Intensity

Another reason to make your own Starbucks Medicine Ball is the control you have over the sweetness and flavor intensity. Starbucks offers a standard recipe that is delicious, but it may be too sweet or not sweet enough for your personal preference. By making it at home, you can adjust the amount of honey or lemonade to suit your taste buds perfectly. Whether you prefer a lighter sweetness or a bolder, tangier flavor, this flexibility means your drink will always match exactly what you’re craving.

Ability to Customize Ingredients for Dietary Preferences

Homemade Medicine Ball tea also offers the freedom to customize ingredients based on your dietary preferences or restrictions. For example:

• If you prefer a dairy-free option, you can swap out the regular milk for almond milk, oat milk, or coconut milk.
• For those watching their sugar intake, you can adjust the amount of honey or even substitute it with stevia, maple syrup, or agave to make the drink a bit healthier.
• If you need to avoid caffeine, simply replace the Jade Citrus Mint tea with a caffeine-free herbal tea, or choose a different herbal tea blend that aligns with your health goals.

This level of personalization allows you to create a drink that not only meets your taste preferences but also fits your specific dietary needs, making it the perfect choice for anyone with allergies, sensitivities, or lifestyle preferences.

Convenience of Having the Recipe Ready Whenever You Need It

When you make your own Starbucks Medicine Ball at home, you don’t have to worry about store hours, waiting in line, or spending time commuting to a Starbucks location. The convenience of having the recipe ready to go in your kitchen means you can enjoy a soothing cup of tea whenever you need it, whether it’s in the morning, during a cold evening, or whenever you’re feeling a bit under the weather. All you need to do is have the ingredients on hand, and you’ll be able to whip up this comforting beverage in just a few minutes.

This convenience is especially great during busy mornings, lazy weekends, or if you’re looking for a quick fix for a sore throat or seasonal sniffles. You no longer have to wait for your Starbucks fix—you can have your homemade Medicine Ball ready to go at a moment’s notice.

How Making Your Own Medicine Ball Enhances Your Tea Experience

When you prepare your own Medicine Ball at home, it’s not just about saving time or money—it’s about enhancing your overall tea experience. The act of making the drink from scratch gives you the opportunity to experiment with flavors, textures, and even presentation. You can explore new ways to enjoy your tea, whether it’s by frothing the milk, adding extra lemon zest, or combining it with other health-boosting ingredients like ginger or turmeric.

Moreover, the satisfaction of sipping a drink you’ve crafted with your own hands makes the experience even more enjoyable. There’s something truly comforting about knowing you’ve created a soothing remedy in the comfort of your home, and it can make each cup feel even more special.

By making the Starbucks Medicine Ball yourself, you’ll discover the joy of being in control of the brewing process, and you’ll never have to worry about rushing to the store or paying extra for a drink that’s easy to make. So why not treat yourself to this delightful homemade version and enjoy it at your leisure? You deserve it!

Conclusion

Making your own Starbucks Medicine Ball at home is not only a practical and cost-effective choice, but it also allows you to create a more personalized and satisfying experience. From saving money on every cup to adjusting the sweetness and flavors to your liking, this DIY recipe gives you the freedom to enjoy a comforting drink whenever you need it. Whether you’re avoiding long lines at Starbucks, customizing the ingredients for dietary needs, or simply enjoying the convenience of having a warm cup of comfort at home, the benefits are clear.

So why wait for the next trip to Starbucks when you can easily make this soothing tea right in your kitchen? Grab your favorite tea bags, some honey, lemonade, and a few simple ingredients, and you’ll have your very own Starbucks Medicine Ball ready to enjoy in no time. Not only will you save money, but you’ll also discover the joy of crafting a delicious drink that’s tailored to your taste.

Give it a try today and experience the warmth and comfort of a homemade Starbucks Medicine Ball—perfect for those chilly days or when you’re in need of a little relaxation!