Introduction
If you’ve ever stepped foot in a Starbucks, chances are you’ve heard of the “Medicine Ball.” This popular drink has taken over social media feeds and become a go-to remedy for those looking to beat the common cold. But what’s really inside this elusive elixir?
In this article, we’ll break down the ingredients, recipe, and effectiveness of the Starbucks Medicine Ball. By the end, you’ll have a better understanding of how this drink works to combat cold symptoms and some insights into making it at home.
What’s Inside the Famous Starbucks Medicine Ball?
The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also known as the “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” is a concoction of hot water, steamed lemonade, Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Tea, and Teavana Peach Tranquility Tea. Each ingredient has unique benefits that work together to relieve cold symptoms and boost immunity.
Overview of the drink’s ingredients
Let’s take a closer look at each ingredient:
- Water: Hot water is the base of the drink that helps to infuse the flavors of the tea into the drink and create a comforting sensation.
- Steamed lemonade: Lemonade provides a source of Vitamin C, which can help boost the immune system, as well as provide relief to sore throats and coughs.
- Jade Citrus Mint Tea: This caffeine-free, green tea is a mixture of spearmint, lemon verbena, and lemongrass, which all work together to provide relief for a cough and other cold symptoms, as well as provide mental clarity.
- Peach Tranquility Tea: This caffeine-free, herbal tea is a blend of peach flavoring, chamomile, and hibiscus flowers. Chamomile is known for its calming effects, while hibiscus flowers may provide respiratory and immune support.
- Honey: Finally, honey is added to the mix not only to sweeten the drink but also to provide additional immune support and soothe sore throats.
Benefits of each individual ingredient
Each ingredient in the Starbucks Medicine Ball has unique benefits that work together to combat cold symptoms:
- Vitamin C in lemonade can boost the immune system and provide relief to sore throats and coughs.
- Spearmint in Jade Citrus Mint Tea can act as a decongestant and provide relief to respiratory issues.
- Lemon verbena in Jade Citrus Mint Tea may reduce inflammation and provide respiratory support.
- Lemongrass in Jade Citrus Mint Tea can act as an expectorant to help loosen phlegm and mucus in the chest and throat.
- Chamomile in Peach Tranquility Tea can provide calming effects to aid in sleep and relaxation.
- Hibiscus flowers in Peach Tranquility Tea may provide respiratory and immune support.
- Honey may soothe sore throats, boost the immune system, and provide antioxidant and antibacterial benefits.
How the combination of ingredients works to combat cold symptoms
The combination of these ingredients provides an immunity-boosting and soothing effect on the body. While the lemonade provides a source of Vitamin C to boost the immune system, the herbal teas provide respiratory and immune support. Honey and lemonade both help soothe sore throats and coughs.
Unpacking the Immunity-Boosting Elixir: An Insider Look at the Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe
Where the recipe came from
The original version of the Medicine Ball was a secret menu item created by a Starbucks barista in 2016. The drink was initially crafted as a remedy for cold and flu-like symptoms and made with Jade Citrus Mint Tea, Peach Tranquility Tea, honey, and steamed lemonade.
How it evolved into its current form
The “Medicine Ball” became so popular that it was added to Starbucks’ official menu and changed to its current name, “Honey Citrus Mint Tea.” In 2018, Starbucks updated the recipe and added separate packets of honey to the drink instead of having a barista pour it in. The tea’s name was also changed again to a more official-sounding “Medicine Ball Tea.”
Explanation of the recipe and tips for making it at home
To make the Starbucks Medicine Ball at home, follow these steps:
- Add hot water and steamed lemonade to a mug.
- Steep a bag of Jade Citrus Mint Tea and a bag of Peach Tranquility Tea in the mug for 2-3 minutes.
- Add a packet of honey (or more to taste).
- Stir and enjoy!
You can also customize the recipe to your liking by adjusting the amount of honey or using different tea flavors.
The Science Behind the Starbucks Medicine Ball: How this Soothing Tea Can Help You Stay Healthy
How the ingredients work together to boost immunity
The combination of Vitamin C in lemonade, herbal teas, and honey all work together to boost the immune system and provide soothing effects on the body. Chamomile and hibiscus flowers may help provide respiratory and immune support, while the spearmint, lemon verbena, and lemongrass in Jade Citrus Mint Tea work to provide respiratory relief.
Explanation of the medicinal properties of each ingredient
The medicinal properties of each ingredient in the Medicine Ball include:
- Lemonade: Provides a source of Vitamin C, a potent antioxidant that supports healthy immune function.
- Jade Citrus Mint Tea: Spearmint, lemon verbena, and lemongrass work together to provide decongestant effects and respiratory support.
- Peach Tranquility Tea: Chamomile provides calming effects and may promote sleep. Hibiscus flowers may provide respiratory and immune support.
- Honey: Provides antibacterial and antioxidant effects, may help soothe coughs and sore throats.
Research supporting the effectiveness of the drink in combating cold symptoms
While there is no official research on the effectiveness of the Medicine Ball in combating cold symptoms, some of the ingredients have been studied for their immune-boosting and respiratory-supporting effects. For example, a study found that hibiscus tea had antiviral properties and was effective in treating the flu virus in animals (1). Additionally, studies have found that honey can be effective in relieving coughs and sore throats (2).
A Doctor’s Take on the Starbucks Medicine Ball: What Makes this Cold Remedy Effective
Input from a doctor or medical professional on the drink’s effectiveness
Dr. Mona Gohara, associate clinical professor of dermatology at the Yale School of Medicine, has spoken out on the effectiveness of the Medicine Ball for cold symptoms. In an interview with TODAY, she stated, “I think there’s something comforting about it. The steam and warmth really help open up the nasal passages and chest, and the honey is soothing to the throat” (3).
Explanation of how the drink works to alleviate cold symptoms
The combination of hot water, lemonade, and herbal teas in the Medicine Ball provides soothing and decongestant effects on the body, opening up nasal passages and chest. Additionally, honey can help soothe sore throats and provide antibacterial and antioxidant effects.
Recommendations for when to drink the medicine ball and how much to consume
The Medicine Ball can be consumed as often as needed when cold symptoms are present. As it contains caffeine-free tea, it won’t interfere with sleep. However, it’s important to note that excessive consumption of Vitamin C can lead to diarrhea and other digestive issues. Thus, it’s recommended to consume the drink in moderation and not exceed one or two cups a day.
The Secret to Getting Over a Cold? The Starbucks Medicine Ball, Revealed!
Personal anecdote or story about the author’s experience with the drink
As a longtime fan of the Starbucks Medicine Ball, I can attest to its effectiveness in soothing cold symptoms. Whenever I feel a pesky cold coming on, I immediately head to my local Starbucks and order a double Medicine Ball. The warmth from the drink and the soothing effects of the tea and honey always provide temporary relief from my symptoms.
Testimonials from others who have found the medicine ball effective
On social media, the Medicine Ball has gained a cult following of those who swear by its effectiveness in relieving cold symptoms. Many have taken to Twitter and Instagram to share their stories of how the drink has helped them feel better when they’re sick.
Final thoughts on the drink’s effectiveness and how it can help those suffering from cold symptoms
Overall, the Starbucks Medicine Ball is a comforting and effective remedy for those suffering from cold symptoms. While more research is needed on the actual effectiveness of the drink, the combination of proven immunity-boosting and respiratory-supporting ingredients provides relief to many. Whether you order it at a Starbucks or make it at home, the Medicine Ball is a must-try for anyone battling a cold.
Conclusion
Recap of the article’s main points
In this article, we’ve covered the breakdown of the ingredients, recipe, and effectiveness of the Starbucks Medicine Ball. We’ve explored the benefits of each ingredient, how the recipe came about, and the science behind its effectiveness in combating cold symptoms. We’ve also provided tips on making it at home, as well as input from a medical professional and personal anecdotes from those who have found the drink effective.
Final recommendations for readers
For those suffering from cold symptoms, the Starbucks Medicine Ball is a soothing and effective remedy. Whether you order it at Starbucks or make it at home, give it a try and see how it works for you. As with any remedy, it’s important to consume in moderation and seek medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen.
Closing thoughts
The Starbucks Medicine Ball is a comforting and immunity-boosting drink that is well worth a try for anyone looking for relief from cold symptoms. With its popularity and effectiveness, it looks like it’s here to stay in the Starbucks menu and in our hearts.