We’ve all been there – feeling under the weather and craving something warm and soothing to help us bounce back. The Starbucks Medicine Ball has become the go-to comfort drink for millions, combining the healing powers of herbal tea with a touch of sweetness that makes medicine taste like a treat.
This beloved beverage started as a secret menu item before officially joining Starbucks’ lineup as the “Honey Citrus Mint Tea.” We love how it perfectly balances jade citrus mint green tea with peach tranquility herbal tea, creating a symphony of flavors that’ll warm you from the inside out. The addition of steamed lemonade and honey transforms this simple tea blend into something truly magical.
The best part? We’re sharing our copycat recipe that tastes just like the original but costs a fraction of the price. You’ll have all the cozy vibes and immune-boosting benefits without leaving your kitchen.
What Is a Starbucks Medicine Ball
The Starbucks Medicine Ball represents a beloved warm beverage that originated as a customer creation on the company’s secret menu. We know this drink by its official name “Honey Citrus Mint Tea” after Starbucks added it to their regular menu in 2017. The Medicine Ball combines two distinct tea blends to create a soothing drink perfect for cold days or when feeling under the weather.
At its core this beverage features Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea steeped together in equal parts. We appreciate how the baristas enhance these teas with steamed lemonade instead of plain water which adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor. The drink receives its signature sweetness from honey packets that dissolve perfectly into the warm liquid.
The Medicine Ball’s appeal lies in its carefully balanced flavor profile. Green tea provides a gentle caffeine boost while the herbal peach tea offers naturally soothing qualities. Steamed lemonade contributes vitamin C and creates a comforting warmth that many customers associate with home remedies. The honey not only sweetens the drink but also provides traditional throat-soothing benefits.
Starbucks serves this beverage in a standard hot cup with the tea bags removed before serving. The drink maintains a light golden color from the lemonade and honey combination. We find that the Medicine Ball appeals to customers seeking both comfort and potential wellness benefits in a single warming beverage.
The popularity of this drink stems from its reputation as a feel-good remedy during cold and flu season. Many customers specifically request the Medicine Ball when they want something gentle yet flavorful to help them through illness or simply to warm up on chilly days.
Ingredients
Creating this comforting homemade version requires simple ingredients that deliver the same soothing benefits as the original. We’ve organized everything you need into two main categories for easy preparation.
For the Tea Base
- Water: 8 ounces for steeping the tea blend
- Lemonade: 8 ounces (Simply Lemonade works well for a lighter flavor)
- Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Tea: 1 tea bag (or substitute with Bigelow Mint Medley)
- Teavana Peach Tranquility Tea: 1 tea bag (or use Celestial Seasonings Country Peach Passion as alternative)
For the Sweeteners and Add-ins
- Honey: 1 to 2 teaspoons (adjust to taste preference)
- Peppermint Extract: 1/8 teaspoon (optional but recommended for enhanced decongestant properties)
Equipment Needed
Creating our homemade Medicine Ball requires minimal kitchen equipment that most of us already have at home. The beauty of this copycat recipe lies in its simplicity and accessibility.
We need a medium saucepan or small pot to heat our water and lemonade mixture. A 2-quart capacity works perfectly for this recipe and allows room for gentle stirring without spillage.
A microwave-safe measuring cup serves as an excellent alternative if we prefer the convenience of microwave heating. We recommend using a 2-cup or larger glass measuring cup that can safely hold our 16-ounce liquid mixture.
Two tea mugs or heat-resistant cups are essential for serving our finished Medicine Ball. Choose mugs that hold at least 10-12 ounces to accommodate the full serving size comfortably.
A wooden spoon or heat-resistant stirring utensil helps us blend the honey thoroughly into our hot beverage. Metal spoons work fine but wooden utensils retain less heat for safer handling.
Measuring cups and spoons ensure we achieve the perfect balance of flavors that makes the Medicine Ball so appealing. We need measuring cups for the water and lemonade portions plus measuring spoons for our honey and optional peppermint extract.
A fine-mesh strainer becomes helpful if we want to remove any tea particles or achieve an ultra-smooth consistency in our final drink.
Kitchen timer or smartphone timer helps us track the crucial 2-3 minute steeping time that extracts optimal flavor from our tea bags without creating bitterness.
Most of these tools serve multiple purposes in our kitchen making this recipe both practical and efficient to prepare whenever we need that comforting Medicine Ball experience at home.
Instructions
Now that we have our ingredients ready let’s walk through the simple process of creating this comforting beverage at home. We’ll follow these five essential steps to achieve that perfect Medicine Ball flavor.
Prep the Tea Bags
We start by gathering our two tea sachets: one Jade Citrus Mint Tea bag and one Peach Tranquility Tea bag. Remove both tea bags from their packaging and set them aside. For those seeking a caffeine-free alternative we can substitute Mint Majesty tea for the Jade Citrus Mint variety. Having both tea bags ready ensures we can add them simultaneously to the hot liquid for optimal flavor extraction.
Heat the Liquids
We combine 8 ounces of water with 8 ounces of lemonade in our medium saucepan or microwave-safe measuring cup. Heat this mixture over medium heat on the stovetop until it reaches a gentle simmer or microwave for 2-3 minutes until hot but not boiling. The liquid should be steaming and hot to the touch. We want the temperature just under boiling point to properly steep the tea without scalding the delicate herbal ingredients.
Steep the Tea
We add both prepared tea sachets to our hot lemonade mixture immediately after heating. Allow the tea bags to steep for 2-4 minutes depending on our desired strength preference. For a milder flavor we steep for 2 minutes while those preferring a stronger tea taste should wait the full 4 minutes. During steeping we can gently press the tea bags against the side of the container to release more flavor compounds.
Add Sweeteners and Lemonade
We remove the tea bags from our mixture and discard them properly. Add 1 tablespoon of honey to the hot tea blend and stir well with our wooden spoon until the honey completely dissolves. For those who prefer additional sweetness we can adjust the honey amount to taste. If using peppermint extract we add just a pinch (1/8 teaspoon) at this stage for enhanced decongestant properties.
Final Assembly
We pour our finished Medicine Ball mixture into two large mugs for serving. The drink should have a beautiful light golden color with aromatic steam rising from the surface. Serve immediately while hot for the best therapeutic and taste experience. For presentation we can garnish with a thin lemon slice or small sprig of fresh mint if desired.
Directions for Customization
We can easily modify the Medicine Ball recipe to match your personal preferences and dietary needs. These customization options allow you to create the perfect warming drink for any situation.
Adjusting Sweetness Levels
We recommend starting with less honey if you prefer a more subtle sweetness in your Medicine Ball. Substitute honey with sugar-free sweeteners like stevia or monk fruit for a healthier alternative. Adding more water and reducing the lemonade amount effectively decreases the overall sugar content while maintaining the drink’s comforting warmth.
For those who enjoy extra sweetness, we suggest increasing the honey gradually until you reach your desired taste. Fresh lemon juice works wonderfully as a replacement for store-bought lemonade, creating a more natural flavor profile with significantly lower sugar content.
Making It Dairy-Free
The Medicine Ball naturally contains no dairy products, making it inherently suitable for those avoiding milk-based ingredients. We appreciate that this recipe requires no modifications for dairy-free diets since it relies solely on tea, lemonade, and honey for its creamy texture and rich flavor.
This makes our homemade version accessible to anyone with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies without sacrificing the drink’s signature comfort and taste.
Reducing Caffeine Content
We can eliminate caffeine entirely by replacing the jade citrus mint tea with additional peach tranquility tea, which is naturally herbal and caffeine-free. Using only herbal tea options like peach ensures your Medicine Ball won’t interfere with sleep or cause caffeine sensitivity issues.
Decaffeinated mint tea serves as another excellent substitute if you want to maintain the original flavor profile while reducing stimulant content. We find that these herbal alternatives still provide the same soothing benefits and therapeutic warmth that make the Medicine Ball so effective during cold and flu season.
Adding peppermint extract enhances the decongestant properties regardless of your caffeine choice, maintaining the drink’s medicinal qualities while accommodating your dietary preferences.
Make-Ahead Tips
We understand that busy schedules can make it challenging to prepare soothing drinks when you need them most. Preparing components of your homemade Medicine Ball in advance ensures you can enjoy this comforting beverage within minutes during those moments when you’re feeling under the weather.
Prepare the Lemonade and Water Mixture in Advance
We recommend combining equal parts lemonade and water in a larger batch and storing the mixture in your refrigerator for up to one week. This pre-made base eliminates the need for measuring during preparation and allows you to heat only the amount you need for each serving. Store the mixture in a sealed glass jar or pitcher to maintain freshness and prevent any flavor absorption from other refrigerator items.
Organize Your Tea Bags for Quick Access
We suggest keeping your jade citrus mint and peach tranquility tea bags together in a designated container or small basket. This simple organization step saves valuable time when you’re not feeling well and need quick access to your ingredients. Consider pre-portioning tea bag pairs in small containers if you frequently make this drink.
Pre-Measure Honey Portions
We find that measuring honey ahead of time streamlines the preparation process significantly. Portion 1 to 2 teaspoons of honey into small containers or use honey packets for individual servings. This approach prevents sticky measuring spoons and ensures consistent sweetness levels each time you prepare the drink.
Steep Tea Bags Just Before Serving
We always recommend steeping your tea bags immediately before consumption to preserve optimal flavor and therapeutic benefits. Fresh steeping ensures the essential oils from the mint and citrus remain potent while maintaining the delicate peach notes that make this drink so soothing. The 2 to 3 minute steeping window provides the perfect balance of flavor without creating bitterness.
Storage Instructions
Making a larger batch of our homemade Medicine Ball means we need proper storage techniques to maintain its quality and safety. We want to preserve the delicate balance of flavors while ensuring the drink remains fresh for future enjoyment.
Cooling Process
We must allow our freshly prepared Medicine Ball to cool completely to room temperature before storing it. This cooling step prevents condensation from forming inside our storage container which can dilute the drink’s carefully balanced flavors. The cooling process also protects our refrigerator from temperature fluctuations that could affect other stored items.
Container Selection
We recommend transferring the cooled tea to a clean airtight container for optimal preservation. Glass containers work exceptionally well for maintaining flavor integrity while plastic containers with tight fitting lids offer convenient portability. Both options effectively seal out air and contaminants that could compromise our Medicine Ball’s quality.
Refrigeration Requirements
Our prepared Medicine Ball requires immediate refrigeration after cooling to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth. The cold environment slows down any deterioration processes while preserving the beneficial properties of our honey and herbal tea blend.
Freshness Timeline
| Storage Duration | Quality Level | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1-2 | Optimal flavor | Best consumption window |
| Day 3 | Acceptable quality | Final recommended day |
| Beyond Day 3 | Declining taste | Not recommended |
We can safely store our homemade Medicine Ball for up to 2 to 3 days in the refrigerator. Beyond this timeframe the flavor profile begins to decline and the therapeutic benefits may diminish significantly.
Organization Tips
We suggest labeling our storage container with the preparation date to track freshness accurately. This simple step helps us identify when our Medicine Ball reaches its optimal consumption window and when we should prepare a fresh batch.
Serving Preparation
Before serving our stored Medicine Ball we need to gently shake the container to remix any ingredients that may have settled during storage. We then reheat the desired portion on the stove over low heat or in the microwave using short intervals to prevent overheating. This gentle reheating process preserves the delicate honey sweetness and herbal tea properties that make our Medicine Ball so soothing.
Serving Suggestions
We recommend serving our homemade Medicine Ball immediately while it’s steaming hot for the most therapeutic benefits. The drink works best when enjoyed in a cozy setting, making it perfect for sipping while wrapped in a blanket during cold and flu season.
Our preferred serving size is a generous 12-ounce mug, which provides the ideal balance of warmth and flavor concentration. We suggest using ceramic mugs that retain heat well, allowing you to savor the drink slowly without it cooling too quickly.
For enhanced presentation, we like to garnish each serving with a thin lemon slice floating on top and a fresh mint sprig tucked along the rim. These simple additions not only create visual appeal but also release additional aromatic oils that complement the tea’s soothing properties.
We find that timing matters significantly when serving this comforting beverage. The Medicine Ball tastes best within the first 10 minutes of preparation, when the honey remains fully dissolved and the tea flavors are at their peak intensity. Serving it during this window ensures maximum throat-soothing benefits and optimal taste experience.
Consider pairing the drink with light snacks that won’t overwhelm its delicate flavor profile. We recommend serving it alongside plain crackers, toast with honey, or ginger cookies that complement the citrus and mint notes without competing for attention.
For those hosting guests, we suggest preparing individual servings rather than making a large batch. This approach allows each person to customize their honey levels and ensures everyone receives their drink at the perfect temperature for maximum comfort and therapeutic effect.
Conclusion
The Medicine Ball represents the perfect fusion of comfort and wellness in a single cup. We’ve shown you how to recreate this beloved Starbucks favorite at home while saving money and customizing it to your preferences.
Whether you’re battling a cold or simply craving something warm and soothing this homemade version delivers the same therapeutic benefits you love. The combination of herbal teas honey and lemonade creates a drink that’s both delicious and functional.
Now you have all the tools knowledge and techniques needed to make your own Medicine Ball whenever the mood strikes. Enjoy the cozy comfort of this healing beverage from the convenience of your own kitchen.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Starbucks Medicine Ball?
The Starbucks Medicine Ball, officially called “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” is a soothing hot beverage that combines jade citrus mint green tea and peach tranquility herbal tea with steamed lemonade and honey. Originally a secret menu item, it became an official Starbucks menu item in 2017 and is popular for its comforting properties during cold and flu season.
What ingredients do I need to make a homemade Medicine Ball?
To make a homemade Medicine Ball, you need 8 ounces each of water and lemonade, one tea bag each of jade citrus mint tea and peach tranquility tea, 1-2 teaspoons of honey, and optionally 1/8 teaspoon of peppermint extract. These simple ingredients recreate the Starbucks version at a fraction of the cost.
How do I make a Medicine Ball at home?
Heat equal parts water and lemonade, steep both tea bags for 2-4 minutes, remove the bags, then stir in honey and optional peppermint extract. Pour into mugs and serve hot immediately. The process takes about 10 minutes and requires basic kitchen equipment like a saucepan and measuring tools.
Can I customize the Medicine Ball recipe?
Yes, the Medicine Ball is highly customizable. You can adjust sweetness with different amounts of honey or sugar-free alternatives like stevia. For less caffeine, replace jade citrus mint tea with additional peach tranquility tea or decaffeinated mint tea. The recipe is naturally dairy-free and accommodates various dietary preferences.
How should I store leftover Medicine Ball?
Cool the drink completely before transferring to an airtight glass or plastic container. Refrigerate immediately and consume within 2-3 days for optimal taste and safety. Label with the preparation date and gently shake before reheating to remix any settled ingredients. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.
What equipment do I need to make this drink?
You’ll need basic kitchen tools: a medium saucepan or microwave-safe measuring cup, two tea mugs, a wooden spoon, measuring cups and spoons, a fine-mesh strainer, and a timer. These common household items make the recipe accessible and easy to prepare without special equipment.
When is the best time to drink a Medicine Ball?
The Medicine Ball is best served immediately while steaming hot for maximum therapeutic benefits. It’s particularly popular during cold and flu season for its soothing properties, but also makes a comforting drink on chilly days. Consume within the first 10 minutes of preparation for optimal temperature and flavor.
