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Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only, not medical advice. Always consult with a doctor before making significant changes to your diet, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions.
Starbucks honey citrus mint tea isn’t just a trendy secret menu item it’s a hug in a mug. Known on TikTok and behind the counter as the “Medicine Ball,” it started as a customer hack and became one of the few official Starbucks secret menu items. It’s warm, citrusy, and minty with a honeyed finish that feels like pure comfort on a sore throat or after a long day.
And if you’re a mom like me, battling cold season while packing lunches and keeping up with work, this tea is a lifesaver. After spending $5 a pop more times than I care to admit, I finally cracked the homemade version. And let me tell you it’s not only easy, it’s better.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to make this cozy drink at home using a Starbucks copycat medicine ball recipe. We’ll answer your most-searched questions, explore ingredient swaps, and even talk about its soothing benefits.
From one busy mom to another: you’re going to want this in your cold-weather rotation.
Table of Contents
Key Takeaways: What You Need to Know
- Starbucks honey citrus mint tea (a.k.a. Medicine Ball) blends peach, mint, lemon, and honey in a soothing, warm drink.
- Yes, it can help ease sore throats thanks to herbal ingredients and steam.
- You can make a better, cheaper version at home in under 10 minutes.
- The secret combo: Mint Majesty + Peach Tranquility teas, lemonade, and honey.
- We’ll show how to DIY it with or without Starbucks tea bags.
Why I Had to Learn to Make Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea at Home
What made me fall in love with this minty miracle?
Short answer? A toddler with the sniffles and a mom with no sleep. One Oregon winter, both my littles caught a cold that just wouldn’t quit. I was running to preschool, boiling humidifiers, and trying to keep up with work. One morning after preschool drop-off, I dragged myself through the Starbucks drive-thru, hoping caffeine would do the trick. But then I saw it Honey Citrus Mint Tea. Something about it just sounded healing.
The barista said it was originally a secret menu drink called the “Medicine Ball.” I took one sip and honestly? I could breathe again. My sore throat calmed down, and I felt… better. Not cured, of course, but comforted.
After that, I found myself stopping for that $5 cup way too often. So I finally decided to recreate it. And girl, when I tell you this version tastes even better than the real thing and costs just cents to make you’ll be as hooked as I was.
Is it really called a Medicine Ball?
Yep! The official Starbucks name is Honey Citrus Mint Tea, but most baristas know it as a Medicine Ball a soothing mix of herbal teas, steamed lemonade, and a swirl of honey. Some even call it the Cold Buster. It started as a customer “hack” and became so popular that Starbucks added it to their official menu.
But you can absolutely make it at home. And with just a few simple ingredients (no fancy tools), you’ll wonder why you ever paid full price.
What’s in Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea? (And How to Make It)
Starbucks honey citrus mint tea also called the Medicine Ball uses a mix of two herbal teas: Mint Majesty and Peach Tranquility, combined with steamed lemonade and a squeeze of honey. It’s soothing, caffeine-free, and surprisingly easy to recreate at home with or without the exact Starbucks blends.
What are the ingredients in honey citrus mint tea (Medicine Ball)?
Here’s what’s in the classic Starbucks version:
| Ingredient | Purpose | Swap Ideas |
|---|---|---|
| Mint Majesty tea | Calms and refreshes with spearmint & lemon | Peppermint or spearmint herbal tea |
| Peach Tranquility tea | Adds fruity, floral notes and chamomile | Any peach or chamomile tea blend |
| Steamed lemonade | Tangy and rich in vitamin C | Lemon juice + water + sweetener |
| Honey | Soothes sore throats and sweetens | Maple syrup or agave (if needed) |
| Hot water | Brings it all together | Optional: heat lemonade fully |
Note: Both Mint Majesty and Peach Tranquility are made by Teavana, a brand owned by Starbucks. You can find them online or at major grocery stores but I’ve also tested plenty of great dupes.
How do you make Starbucks honey citrus mint tea at home?
Here’s the no-fuss way I make this Starbucks copycat medicine ball at home (yes, in my messy kitchen with kids underfoot):
Cheflora Copycat Recipe:
- Boil 3/4 cup of water and steep:
- 1 bag Mint Majesty tea (or spearmint)
- 1 bag Peach Tranquility tea (or peach/chamomile)
- Heat 3/4 cup lemonade until hot, but not boiling.
- I often mix lemon juice, honey, and water if I’m out.
- Combine teas + lemonade in a large mug.
- Add 1–2 teaspoons honey (or more to taste).
- Stir well and sip while warm.
Mom hack: If you’re short on time, microwave everything in one large mug and drop the tea bags right in. Let it steep while you answer emails or wrangle toddlers.
Is this tea good for sore throats?
Yes. The combo of lemon, mint, honey, and steam makes this one of the best teas at Starbucks for sore throats. It’s not medicine, but it definitely helps you feel better. Honey soothes. Lemon and mint clear your sinuses. The steam alone can feel like a spa day when you’re sick.
Looking for other natural helpers? I’ve also had great luck with this lemon balm tea for weight loss and calm when I want something mellow in the evenings.
How to Customize Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea to Fit You
Starbucks honey citrus mint tea is already a feel-good favorite, but when you make it at home, you can customize it to match your mood, health goals, or pantry situation. Whether you’re craving something sweeter, lighter, or more immune-boosting, these swaps and tips have you covered.
What can I use if I don’t have the exact Starbucks teas?
No Teavana? No problem. The “secret” to this medicine ball recipe is really just the balance of citrus, mint, and floral tea. You don’t need the brand names to get the same soothing effect.
Here’s how I make it with whatever I’ve got on hand:
| Starbucks Version | Budget-Friendly Swap |
|---|---|
| Teavana Mint Majesty | Peppermint tea, spearmint, or mint green |
| Peach Tranquility | Chamomile + peach-flavored tea |
| Steamed lemonade | ½ lemon juice + ½ apple juice + water |
| Raw honey | Any honey (or agave/maple in a pinch) |
Mom Tip: I’ve even tossed in a mint green tea and Sleepytime peach worked like a charm.
How can I make it healthier (or weight-loss friendly)?
Here’s how I tweak it when I’m watching sugar or aiming to boost immunity:
- Cut the lemonade: Swap half for hot water or use unsweetened lemon juice with stevia.
- Go lighter on honey: 1 tsp is usually plenty.
- Add ginger: A slice of fresh ginger or a dash of powder adds warmth and digestive support.
- Toss in apple peel: Sounds odd, but steeping an apple peel for weight loss adds nutrients and sweetness.
When I’m sipping this to feel better, I often pair it with my natural Ozempic drink or a batch of my chia coffee to get that cozy-meets-functional feel. It’s all about layering little wellness rituals.
Can I make it iced or prep it ahead?
You bet! This tea is actually amazing iced, especially during allergy season when cold drinks feel better on a scratchy throat.
To make it iced:
- Brew your tea double-strength.
- Chill with lemon juice and honey stirred in.
- Pour over ice.
Store it in a mason jar in the fridge, and you’ve got a ready-to-drink refreshment that’s way better than store-bought. Add a splash of Costa Rican tea for a tropical vibe.
Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea Recipe (Copycat That’s Better Than the Original)
Starbucks honey citrus mint tea is surprisingly easy to recreate with just a few ingredients you probably already have. The best part? You can make this healing, cozy drink at home in under 10 minutes for a fraction of the price and with even more flavor.
Whether you’re trying to soothe a scratchy throat, stay warm on a rainy day, or just want a healthy Starbucks-style treat, this copycat honey citrus mint tea has you covered.
How to make Starbucks honey citrus mint tea at home (step-by-step)
Here’s my tried-and-true version that tastes just like the real deal if not better. I’ve fine-tuned this Starbucks honey citrus mint tea recipe so it’s super simple, even on your busiest mornings.
Ingredients
- ¾ cup hot water
- ¾ cup lemonade (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 Mint Majesty tea bag (or any mint herbal tea)
- 1 Peach Tranquility tea bag (or peach/chamomile blend)
- 1½ to 2 teaspoons raw honey
- Optional: fresh lemon slice or ginger slice
Instructions
- Boil the water and pour it into a large mug.
- Add both tea bags (mint and peach) and steep for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, warm the lemonade until hot, but not boiling.
- Remove tea bags, add the lemonade, and stir in the honey.
- Add lemon slice or ginger if desired. Sip slowly and enjoy.
Real-life review: “My cold disappeared!”
“I had a nasty sore throat, and a friend told me to try Starbucks honey citrus mint tea. I made this version at home using Lora’s recipe, and WOW it worked better than cough drops. I didn’t even miss the Starbucks version!”
Jenna T., Portland, OR
Make it your own: “Mint Majesty + 2 honeys” trick
Want it extra soothing? Some fans of the Starbucks honey citrus mint tea swear by asking for “2 honeys” at the register. When I’m home, I do the same. Try doubling the honey or adding a splash of extra mint tea for a boost.
You can even get creative with teas swap in coffee trick teas or test it alongside my natural Mounjaro recipe for a gentle health reset.
Pro Tip: Pre-make your own “tea base”
You can steep a double batch of the tea, store it in the fridge, and heat with lemonade when needed. It’s like having your own Starbucks barista at home. Add a splash to smoothies, or mix with a bit of coffee loophole mix for an immune-friendly boost.
Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea (Medicine Ball Copycat)
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Boil the water and pour it into a large mug.
- Add both tea bags (mint and peach) and steep for 5 minutes.
- Warm the lemonade in a small saucepan or microwave until hot but not boiling.
- Remove the tea bags, add the hot lemonade, and stir in the honey.
- Add a lemon slice or ginger slice if desired and enjoy warm.
Nutrition
Notes
Tried this recipe?
Mention @Cheflorarecipes or tag #cheflorarecipes!Why Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea Is a Must-Have When You’re Sick
Starbucks honey citrus mint tea isn’t just delicious it’s one of the most comforting, feel-better drinks out there. Whether you’re dealing with a sore throat, mild congestion, or just need a warm hug in a cup, this tea checks every box. It’s caffeine-free, naturally sweet, and packed with soothing ingredients.
And the best part? You can make your own Starbucks honey citrus mint tea at home for less than a dollar per cup.
Does Starbucks honey citrus mint tea help a sore throat?
Yes Starbucks honey citrus mint tea helps soothe sore throats thanks to its natural mix of steam, mint, lemon, and honey. Each ingredient plays a role:
- Honey coats your throat and calms irritation.
- Mint helps clear nasal passages and eases inflammation.
- Lemon juice offers a burst of vitamin C and cuts through mucus.
- Hot steam relieves pressure in your sinuses and warms your body from the inside out.
I’ve turned to Starbucks honey citrus mint tea every time cold season hits my house. When my kids were down with sniffles and I was running on no sleep, one warm mug of this tea helped me power through.
Is Starbucks honey citrus mint tea good for digestion?
It is! Mint and lemon are classic digestive aids. Drinking Starbucks honey citrus mint tea after a meal can:
- Settle bloating
- Support liver function
- Help your body process food more efficiently
I often sip it at night when I want something light and comforting that won’t upset my stomach.
And bonus: if you’re on a wellness kick, try pairing it with my chia seeds in coffee or apple peel drink to stay on track with your health goals.
More health benefits of Starbucks honey citrus mint tea:
Let’s break down even more reasons to love this tea especially when you make it at home:
| Benefit | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Hydrating | Great when you’re sick or tired |
| Caffeine-free | Safe for evening sipping or sensitive tummies |
| Natural remedy | Honey and herbs can calm mild cold symptoms |
| Helps prevent cravings | Warm, sweet flavors curb sugar binges late at night |
| Supports immunity | Lemon and herbal tea may help keep your body in balance |
Pro tip: I keep tea bags and lemonade stocked year-round so I can make Starbucks honey citrus mint tea whenever I feel that first throat tickle or midweek burnout creeping in.
A comforting ritual, not just a cold remedy
Sometimes, the best thing Starbucks honey citrus mint tea does is remind you to slow down. When I wrap my hands around a steaming mug of this tea especially one I’ve made at home it feels like I’m finally taking care of me for a moment.
No makeup. No pressure. Just warmth, flavor, and 10 peaceful minutes. And that’s powerful.
FAQs About Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea
Does Starbucks honey citrus mint tea help a sore throat?
Yes, Starbucks honey citrus mint tea helps soothe a sore throat. It combines mint, lemon, and honey all known for calming throat irritation. The steam from the tea also helps open nasal passages, making it easier to breathe when you’re congested or sick. Many people swear by this tea during cold season.
Does Starbucks have honey mint tea?
Yes, Starbucks offers honey mint tea on the official menu as Honey Citrus Mint Tea. Originally a secret menu item known as the “Medicine Ball,” it became so popular that Starbucks made it a permanent drink. It includes Mint Majesty and Peach Tranquility teas, steamed lemonade, and honey.
How do you make Starbucks honey citrus mint tea?
To make Starbucks honey citrus mint tea at home, steep one Mint Majesty and one Peach Tranquility tea bag in hot water. Add warm lemonade and 1–2 teaspoons of honey. Stir and serve. This easy recipe mimics Starbucks’ soothing “Medicine Ball” drink, offering comfort and flavor in every sip.
What are the ingredients in honey citrus mint tea (Medicine Ball tea)?
The ingredients in Starbucks honey citrus mint tea, also known as Medicine Ball tea, are:
Mint Majesty herbal tea
Peach Tranquility herbal tea
Steamed lemonade
Hot water
Honey
All these ingredients create a naturally sweet, caffeine-free tea that helps soothe sore throats and supports hydration.
Is Starbucks honey citrus mint tea on the secret menu?
It started as a secret menu drink called the “Medicine Ball,” but Starbucks honey citrus mint tea became so popular that it’s now officially on the menu at most locations. Just ask for it by name or make it at home with our copycat recipe and skip the drive-thru.
Wrap-Up + Why You’ll Keep Making Starbucks Honey Citrus Mint Tea
So, is Starbucks honey citrus mint tea worth making at home?
Absolutely. Starbucks honey citrus mint tea is more than just a trendy drink it’s a warm, soothing, and healing ritual you can recreate any time you need a little TLC. Whether you’re fighting a cold, warming up on a chilly day, or just carving out 10 minutes of peace, this tea fits right into the rhythm of real life.
You don’t need a barista. You don’t need a Starbucks run. You just need a mug, a few pantry ingredients, and maybe a cozy blanket.
From one busy, throat-scratchy, energy-drained mom to another I promise, this little recipe can make a big difference in your day.
Now go steep your moment of peace. You deserve it.
