The Starbucks Medicine Ball Drink Is My Winter Go-To—Here's How to Order It

We're now seeing the start of cold and flu season (plus COVID-19, too), and though I'm staying home to keep myself and my loved ones safe, there are still days when I wake up feeling less than my best. It just seems like the sniffles and a stuffy nose are a part of winter at this point. Instead of trying to stomach one of those throat lozenges, I head to my local Starbucks and order what many call the "Medicine Ball" drink. It's a favorite beverage by many Starbucks drinkers, including Rachel Weber, editorial director at Better Homes & Gardens, who first recommended it to me. If you haven't had a sip yet, you'll want to as soon as possible.

Courtesy of Starbucks

Some customers call this drink the "Medicine Ball," but others refer to it as the "Cold Buster." Unlike some secret menu items, like the Cinderella latte, this beverage is so popular, that many baristas know it by name. It's actually on the Starbucks menu as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea with the customizations already set. Here's what's in this cold-fighting concoction: Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea, Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea, hot water, steamed lemonade, and just a hint of honey. To really jazz it up, some customers order a pump of peppermint syrup.

So, what can you expect from this mix? Starbucks notes the flavors "mingle tastefully well together for a tea that comforts from the inside out." Weber says it's her go-to drink when she feels under the weather and describes it as a "warm, healing mojito." I agree and think the minty, fruity flavors taste delicious together.

When a customer creation makes it to the official menu, you know it has to be something special, but you'll never really know unless you try it out for yourself. The next time you're feeling unwell, order this drink, and hopefully, you'll be on the mend soon.