The “Medicine Ball” from Starbucks has gained popularity as a soothing, warm drink that many swear by during cold and flu season. Officially known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, this beverage was once a part of Starbucks’ secret menu but has now become an official offering due to its rising demand. With its blend of citrus, mint, honey, and steamed lemonade, this tea concoction is more than just a tasty drink—it’s a remedy for those feeling under the weather.
Let’s dive deeper into what makes the Medicine Ball Starbucks such a beloved drink and the potential benefits of its ingredients, particularly its star component: mint tea.
Ingredients of Medicine Ball Starbucks
The Medicine Ball Starbucks drink consists of the following ingredients:
Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea: A soothing green tea blended with mint and lemongrass.
Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea: A light and fruity herbal tea infused with peach, candied pineapple, and chamomile blossoms.
Steamed Lemonade: Adds a tangy citrusy flavor.
Honey: Provides sweetness and coats the throat, which can be especially helpful for soothing a sore throat.
These ingredients work together to create a flavorful, comforting drink, but it’s the mint tea that has caught the attention of many health-conscious individuals. Let’s explore the benefit of mint tea and its potential role in supporting wellness.
Benefit of Mint Tea
Mint tea, particularly the kind used in the Medicine Ball Starbucks, offers numerous health benefits. Derived from the mint plant, it’s known for its refreshing taste and therapeutic properties. Here are some notable benefits:
1. Soothes Digestive Issues
One of the best-known benefits of mint tea is its ability to ease digestive discomfort. Whether you’re experiencing bloating, indigestion, or nausea, a cup of mint tea can work wonders. The menthol in mint helps relax the muscles in the digestive tract, which can reduce cramping and promote smoother digestion.
2. Relieves Cold Symptoms
When you’re battling a cold, mint tea can be your best friend. The menthol found in mint acts as a natural decongestant, helping to break up mucus and relieve a stuffy nose. This makes mint tea an excellent choice during cold and flu season, further emphasizing the soothing qualities of the Medicine Ball Starbucks.
3. Reduces Stress and Anxiety
Mint tea has been found to have calming effects on the body. The soothing aroma of mint can help reduce stress levels and promote relaxation, making it a great choice for those seeking a mental break during their busy day. Paired with the honey and warmth of the Medicine Ball Starbucks, this drink becomes a comforting ritual for many.
4. Boosts Immunity
Mint contains trace amounts of vitamins and minerals such as Vitamin A, which is essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. Drinking mint tea regularly can help boost your body’s defenses, ensuring you stay healthy, especially during cold seasons.
5. Supports Oral Health
Mint is commonly used in dental products for a reason—it helps freshen breath and fight off bacteria in the mouth. Drinking mint tea can have similar benefits by naturally reducing harmful bacteria, supporting better oral hygiene.
Does Mint Tea Help Lose Weight?
For those looking to shed a few pounds, the question arises: does mint tea help lose weight? While mint tea alone won’t work miracles, it can certainly aid in your weight loss journey when paired with a healthy diet and lifestyle.
1. Low in Calories
Mint tea is naturally low in calories, making it a guilt-free beverage for anyone trying to cut down on their daily intake. The Medicine Ball Starbucks, with its combination of herbal teas and honey, offers a tasty alternative to higher-calorie drinks without sacrificing flavor.
2. Boosts Metabolism
Some studies suggest that mint may help increase metabolism by encouraging better digestion. While the effects may be subtle, including mint tea as part of your routine may support your body’s ability to burn fat more efficiently over time.
3. Reduces Cravings
Mint is known for its appetite-suppressing qualities. The aroma of mint can help reduce food cravings, which can be beneficial if you’re trying to manage portion control. Enjoying a cup of mint tea between meals could help you avoid unnecessary snacking, ultimately contributing to weight loss.
4. Supports Hydration
Proper hydration is a key factor in weight loss, and mint tea is a hydrating beverage that can be enjoyed hot or cold. Unlike sugary drinks, mint tea provides hydration without adding extra calories, making it a great option to include in your weight loss plan.
Making the Medicine Ball Starbucks at home is easy and requires just a few simple ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide to recreate this comforting drink in your own kitchen:
Ingredients:
1 bag of Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea (or any green tea with mint)
1 bag of Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea (or any fruity herbal tea)
1 cup of steamed lemonade (or a mixture of lemon juice, water, and a touch of sugar if you don’t have steamed lemonade)
1 tablespoon of honey (or more to taste)
Instructions:
Brew the Tea: Start by boiling water. Once it’s hot, steep one bag of Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and one bag of Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea in a mug for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to infuse.
Prepare the Lemonade: While the tea is steeping, heat up some lemonade on the stove or in the microwave until it’s warm but not boiling. If you don’t have steamed lemonade, you can simply mix warm water with a generous splash of lemon juice and a little sugar or honey.
Combine: Remove the tea bags from your cup. Pour the steamed lemonade into the mug with the brewed tea.
Add Honey: Stir in a tablespoon of honey (or more if you prefer it sweeter). The honey not only adds sweetness but also helps soothe a sore throat.
Stir and Enjoy: Give everything a good stir to combine the flavors, and your homemade Medicine Ball Starbucks is ready to enjoy!
You can also adjust the recipe to your liking by adding more honey, trying different teas, or even making it iced for a refreshing twist. This easy recipe allows you to enjoy the soothing and health-boosting benefits of the Medicine Ball Starbucks anytime, from the comfort of your home!
How to Order the Medicine Ball Starbucks
If you’re new to this drink or looking for a way to order it like a pro, here’s how you can request the Medicine Ball Starbucks at your local Starbucks:
Ask for a Honey Citrus Mint Tea.
The barista will use Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea bags.
They will add steamed lemonade and honey to sweeten the deal.
For those who prefer customization, you can request adjustments like reducing the amount of honey, switching out the lemonade, or even asking for it iced if you’re in the mood for a cold refreshment.
Variations You Can Try
While the classic Medicine Ball Starbucks is a fan favorite, there are a few variations you can try to switch things up:
1. Extra Honey
For an extra throat-soothing effect, ask for additional honey. This can make the drink even more comforting if you’re suffering from a sore throat or need a little more sweetness.
2. Swap for a Different Tea
If you’re looking for a more intense mint flavor, consider swapping out the Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea for another mint-based option. This can enhance the mint’s cooling effects and create a sharper flavor profile.
3. Iced Medicine Ball
As mentioned earlier, some people prefer the Medicine Ball Starbucks cold. Simply ask for it to be made iced, and you’ll get the same refreshing taste with a different twist.
Final Thoughts on the Medicine Ball Starbucks
The Medicine Ball Starbucks is more than just a trendy drink—it’s a soothing remedy that can help you combat cold symptoms, stay hydrated, and enjoy the benefits of mint tea. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a comforting beverage, this drink provides a delightful mix of flavors and health benefits.
And with mint tea’s added advantages, from aiding digestion to supporting weight loss, the Medicine Ball Starbucks truly stands out as a health-boosting choice. So, next time you’re at Starbucks, don’t hesitate to order this magical tea for both taste and wellness.
