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Recipe

Starbucks Medicine Ball

A quick homemade version of the cozy honey citrus mint tea, made with real lemon, mint tea, and a soothing hit of honey.

Author By Matt Campbell
4.8
A steaming mug of honey citrus mint tea with a lemon slice and fresh mint on a cozy kitchen counter
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When you want something warm, soothing, and just sweet enough, the Starbucks Medicine Ball is basically a hug in a cup. Officially it is Honey Citrus Mint Tea, and “Medicine Ball” is just the unofficial nickname most of us still use, especially when our throats feel scratchy or the weather is doing that cold, gray thing.

This homemade version keeps the spirit of the original: mint + citrus + honey, steeped strong and served piping hot. No fancy syrups required, no leaving the house required, and you can make it taste exactly how you want. More lemon? Do it. Less sweet? Easy. Extra mint because you are trying to feel like a functioning human again? Absolutely.

Honey, lemon, mint tea bags, and a kettle arranged on a kitchen counter

Why It Works

  • Fast comfort: This comes together in about 5 minutes, which is ideal when you do not feel like doing anything except existing near a blanket.
  • Balanced flavor: Citrus brightens, mint cools, honey rounds it out. It tastes like comfort, not cough syrup.
  • Customizable: Control sweetness, strength, and caffeine by choosing your teas and how long you steep.
  • Accessible ingredients: You can make this with grocery store tea bags and basic pantry staples.

Pairs Well With

Storage Tips

This drink is best fresh, but if you make extra (or forget it on the counter because life happens), here is the low-drama way to handle it.

Fridge

  • Let it cool, then refrigerate promptly in a sealed jar or bottle for 1 to 2 days.
  • If you used fresh lemon, the flavor can get a bit sharper over time. Taste and add a little extra honey when reheating if needed.

Reheat

  • Warm gently on the stove over low heat until steaming. Avoid boiling or it can turn a little bitter.
  • Microwave is fine too, just heat in short bursts and stir.

Make-ahead tip

If you want a quick grab-and-heat option, mix lemon juice + honey in a small jar and keep it in the fridge for a few days. Then you only have to steep tea and stir.

Common Questions

Is the Medicine Ball actually medicine?

Nope. It is just tea, citrus, and honey. It can feel soothing, but it is not a medical treatment. If you are sick or symptoms are severe, check in with a healthcare professional.

What teas does Starbucks use?

Typically, Starbucks makes the Honey Citrus Mint Tea with Teavana Jade Citrus Mint (a green tea blend, so it has caffeine) and Peach Tranquility (an herbal tea), plus steamed lemonade and honey (often a honey blend). Availability can vary by location, but that is the classic combo.

Can I make it caffeine-free?

Yes. Use herbal mint and herbal peach teas. Double check labels because some “peach” blends include black or green tea.

What can I use instead of lemonade?

Fresh lemon juice works great. If you want that lemonade vibe, add a little extra honey to balance the tartness. You can also top it up with a bit more hot water if your mug is feeling empty.

Why does my tea taste bitter?

Usually it is from over-steeping (especially with green or black tea) or using water that is too hot for green tea. Keep green tea steeping to about 2 to 3 minutes and use water around 175 to 185°F. Also, adding citrus after steeping helps keep the flavor smooth.

Can I add ginger?

Absolutely. A few thin slices of fresh ginger or a small pinch of ground ginger turns this into an extra cozy, warming cup.

Is honey okay for everyone?

Honey is not recommended for children under 1 year old.

The first time I made this at home, I was in that specific mood where you are tired, a little sniffly, and irrationally offended by the idea of putting on real pants to go buy tea. I threw two tea bags in a mug, squeezed in lemon, added honey, and took a sip expecting “close enough.” It was better than close enough. It tasted bright, warm, and actually comforting, like my kitchen was trying to help. Now it is my go-to when winter shows up, or when my voice sounds like it spent the night yelling at a football game.