Ordering Starbucks Wellness: A Pro’s Guide to the Medicine Ball on the App

The Starbucks Medicine Ball, also affectionately known as the Honey Citrus Mint Tea, is your go-to elixir when feeling under the weather. Ordering one on the Starbucks app is surprisingly simple, even if it doesn’t explicitly appear as “Medicine Ball” on the menu. You’ll navigate to the “Hot Teas” section, select “Custom Tea”, and then meticulously add the necessary components: Jade Citrus Mint Brewed Tea, Peach Tranquility Brewed Tea, hot water, lemonade, and honey. Fine-tuning these ingredients within the customization options ensures you get the comforting beverage you desire, all without uttering a word at the counter.

Deciphering the Digital Menu: Step-by-Step Instructions

Mastering the app is key to a seamless Starbucks experience, especially when a sore throat makes verbal communication a challenge. Here’s how to craft your perfect Medicine Ball on the app, broken down into digestible steps:

1. Open the Starbucks App: Launch the app on your smartphone or tablet. Make sure you are logged in to your account.
2. Locate the “Order” Tab: Typically found at the bottom of the screen, tap the “Order” tab to begin your mobile order.
3. Select Your Store: Choose the Starbucks location where you want to pick up your order. This is crucial for accurate preparation and availability.
4. Navigate to “Hot Teas”: Scroll through the menu categories until you find the “Hot Teas” section. Tap on it to expand the options.
5. Choose “Custom Tea”: Within the “Hot Teas” section, look for “Custom Tea” or a similar option. This allows you to build your beverage from scratch.
6. Add Jade Citrus Mint Brewed Tea: Under the “Tea Bags” or “Tea Type” customization options, select “Jade Citrus Mint”.
7. Add Peach Tranquility Brewed Tea: Similarly, select “Peach Tranquility” from the “Tea Bags” or “Tea Type” options. You will typically find that you can select both, as the app allows for a customized blend of different teas.
8. Adjust Water, Lemonade, and Honey: This is where the precision comes in. Under the “Add-Ins” or “Liquid” customization options, specify “Hot Water” and “Lemonade”. Also, ensure you request “Honey”. You can adjust the pumps or amounts of each to your liking. A standard Medicine Ball usually has an equal amount of hot water and lemonade, and the honey is added to taste.
9. Specify Your Cup Size: Choose your desired cup size (Tall, Grande, Venti).
10. Review Your Order: Carefully review your customized tea to ensure all the ingredients are correct, including the two tea bags, hot water, lemonade, and honey.
11. Add to Order and Checkout: Once satisfied, add the item to your order and proceed to checkout. Select your payment method and confirm your order.

Pro-Tip: Save Your Creation as a Favorite

Once you’ve perfected your app-based Medicine Ball order, save it as a favorite. This feature allows you to reorder it quickly in the future, bypassing the need to re-enter all the customization details. Look for the “Save” or “Favorite” icon near the order confirmation.

Medicine Ball FAQs: Your Questions Answered

These frequently asked questions provide further insight into customizing, ordering, and enjoying your Medicine Ball.

1. Can I order a Medicine Ball if I’m allergic to honey?

Absolutely. When customizing the drink, simply remove the honey from the ingredient list. You can specify this in the “Special Instructions” section when placing your order on the app.

2. Is the Medicine Ball available in all Starbucks locations?

Generally, yes. Since the Medicine Ball is made from standard ingredients available in most Starbucks stores, it’s typically available. However, ingredient availability can vary, so it’s always a good idea to check the app for your specific location or call ahead to confirm.

3. Can I add other ingredients to my Medicine Ball?

Certainly! The beauty of a custom tea is its adaptability. Consider adding ginger, extra lemon juice, or even a pump of peppermint syrup for added soothing benefits. Experiment and find what works best for you.

4. Is there a sugar-free version of the Medicine Ball?

Yes, you can omit the honey and lemonade, or request sugar-free lemonade. Consider asking for a sugar-free honey alternative, if available.

5. What are the nutritional facts for a standard Medicine Ball?

Nutritional information can vary based on cup size and customization. A Grande Medicine Ball typically contains around 100 calories, primarily from the honey and lemonade. Refer to the Starbucks app or website for detailed nutritional information based on your specific modifications.

6. Can I order an iced version of the Medicine Ball?

While it’s traditionally served hot, you can request an iced version. When customizing, specify “iced” in the special instructions. The barista will likely add ice and adjust the proportions of ingredients accordingly. Keep in mind that the hot tea bags will need to be steeped separately before being added to the iced beverage.

7. How do I specify the amount of honey I want?

Under the “Add-Ins” section, you can often specify the number of honey packets or pumps you desire. If the option is not readily available, write it in the “Special Instructions” section.

8. Is the Medicine Ball more expensive than a regular tea?

Due to the customization involved (two different tea bags, lemonade, and honey), the Medicine Ball is usually slightly more expensive than a regular brewed tea.

9. What if my Starbucks location doesn’t list “Custom Tea” in the app?

If you cannot find the “Custom Tea” option, look for a generic “Brewed Tea” option and then customize it extensively using the available options. You may need to use the special instructions to clarify your request.

10. Can I order the Medicine Ball through delivery services like Uber Eats or DoorDash?

Yes, you can usually order a Medicine Ball through delivery services. Simply customize a hot tea as described above within the respective app. Double-check the order before submitting to ensure all your specifications are captured.

11. How do I ask for light lemonade in my Medicine Ball?

Within the “Add-Ins” or “Liquid” section, if available, you should be able to reduce the pumps or amount of lemonade. Alternatively, you can add “Light Lemonade” or “Less Lemonade” in the “Special Instructions” section.

12. Are there alternative names for the Medicine Ball?

While “Medicine Ball” is the most common name, some baristas may not be familiar with it. Using the full name, “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” is a safer bet. You can also describe the ingredients: “Jade Citrus Mint Tea, Peach Tranquility Tea, hot water, lemonade, and honey.” This ensures clarity and reduces the chances of miscommunication.