How to order medicine ball starbucks is actually simpler than you think, man! This drink, often called the “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” is a go-to for many when they’re feeling under the weather or just craving something soothing and refreshing. It’s a warm hug in a mug, packed with calming ingredients that make you feel better instantly. We’re gonna break down exactly how to get your hands on this magical concoction, from understanding what’s in it to making it yours with all the right customizations.
This guide is your ultimate cheat sheet to mastering the Starbucks Medicine Ball. We’ll cover everything from the basic ingredients and why people love it so much, to the nitty-gritty of ordering it in-store or through the app. Plus, we’ll dish out tips on customizing it to perfection, understanding the pricing, and even how to whip up your own version at home if you’re feeling adventurous.
Get ready to become a Medicine Ball pro!
Understanding the Starbucks Medicine Ball Drink
The Starbucks Medicine Ball, officially known as the “Teavana Citrus Mint Tea,” has become a go-to beverage for many seeking a comforting and soothing drink. It’s not just a regular tea; it’s a carefully crafted concoction that has earned its reputation for being a remedy for colds and sore throats, though it’s enjoyed by many for its unique flavor profile year-round.This drink is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined thoughtfully, can create a beloved specialty beverage.
Its popularity stems from its perceived health benefits and its delicious, refreshing taste, making it a staple on Starbucks’ secret menu and often a regular order for those in the know.
Core Components of the Starbucks Medicine Ball Tea
At its heart, the Starbucks Medicine Ball is a layered tea beverage. It expertly blends two distinct Teavana teas with a touch of sweetness and a creamy finish. This combination is what gives it its signature taste and soothing qualities.The base of the drink relies on the synergistic effect of its two primary tea components. One brings a bright, citrusy note, while the other offers a cooling, minty sensation.
Together, they create a complex yet harmonious flavor that is both invigorating and calming.
Typical Ingredients in a Standard Starbucks Medicine Ball Order
A standard order of the Starbucks Medicine Ball, or Citrus Mint Tea, is composed of a few key ingredients that are readily available at Starbucks locations. These components work together to create the drink’s characteristic flavor and texture.The primary ingredients are:
- Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Tea: This is a green tea blend featuring lemongrass and mint, providing a bright, citrusy, and slightly minty base.
- Teavana Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea: This caffeine-free herbal infusion includes chamomile, rosehips, and peppermint, contributing floral and fruity notes with a calming effect.
- Steamed Lemonade: Instead of cold lemonade, hot steamed lemonade is used, which mellows the tartness and integrates better with the hot teas.
- Honey: A touch of honey is added for sweetness and its soothing properties, complementing the citrus and mint flavors.
- Optional: Milk or a dairy alternative (like soy or almond milk): While not always included in the “standard” secret menu order, many customers opt to add a splash of milk or a dairy-free alternative to give the drink a creamier texture and a richer mouthfeel.
Common Reasons for Ordering the Medicine Ball
The Starbucks Medicine Ball has garnered a loyal following for several compelling reasons, primarily centered around its perceived ability to alleviate discomfort and its appealing taste. It’s more than just a beverage; for many, it’s a comforting ritual.Customers frequently order this drink for the following reasons:
- Symptom Relief: The most common reason is to soothe symptoms associated with colds, sore throats, and general malaise. The combination of citrus, mint, and honey is widely believed to offer relief.
- Comfort and Warmth: The hot nature of the drink, combined with its soothing ingredients, provides a sense of comfort, especially during colder months or when feeling under the weather.
- Refreshing Flavor Profile: Beyond its medicinal reputation, the unique blend of citrus, mint, and subtle sweetness is simply delicious and refreshing, making it a popular choice for those who enjoy a complex yet balanced tea.
- Caffeine-Free Option (with modifications): While the Jade Citrus Mint tea contains some caffeine, many customers order it with extra Peach Tranquility or ensure it’s made with a lighter hand on the green tea to create a more caffeine-free experience, appealing to those sensitive to caffeine or seeking a nighttime beverage.
- Customization and Personalization: The drink’s adaptability allows for personal preferences, such as adding or omitting honey, adjusting the amount of lemonade, or including milk, making it a highly customizable order.
Ordering the Medicine Ball at Starbucks
Mastering the art of ordering your perfect Starbucks Medicine Ball is key to ensuring you get exactly what you’re craving. It’s more than just asking for a drink; it’s about clear communication and knowing your options. This section breaks down the process, from articulating your order to exploring popular customizations.
Ordering a Starbucks Medicine Ball is quite simple, a sweet respite from daily routines, much like understanding if can cholesterol medicine lower blood pressure , a complex health query. Once you’ve pondered that, just ask for a “Tazo Tea Zen” with steamed lemonade and honey for your delightful Starbucks Medicine Ball.
Step-by-Step In-Store Ordering
When you walk up to the counter, the process is straightforward. Being prepared with your order can make the interaction smooth and efficient for both you and the barista.
- Approach the counter and make eye contact with the barista.
- Clearly state the name of the drink: “I’d like to order a Grande (or your preferred size) Medicine Ball.”
- If you have specific customizations, mention them immediately after the drink name. For example, “I’d like a Grande Medicine Ball, with extra honey.”
- Confirm the details if the barista repeats your order or asks clarifying questions.
- Proceed to payment and wait for your drink.
Articulating Your Medicine Ball Order
Effective communication with your barista is crucial for getting your drink just right. Using precise language helps avoid confusion and ensures you receive the intended beverage.The most direct way to order is to state the drink name and size. For example, “Can I get a Venti Medicine Ball?” If you’re unsure of the exact name, you can describe it: “I’d like the tea that’s good for colds, with lemonade and steamed milk.” However, using the official name, “Medicine Ball” or “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” is always best.
When adding customizations, be specific. Instead of “add some syrup,” say “add one pump of vanilla syrup” or “add extra honey.”
Common Medicine Ball Customizations and Modifications
The Starbucks Medicine Ball is a popular choice partly because it’s so adaptable. Baristas can adjust various components to suit individual preferences and dietary needs.Here are some of the most frequent modifications:
- Sweeteners: While honey is standard, customers often request more or less honey, or substitute it with classic syrup, vanilla syrup, or even sugar. Some opt for sugar-free syrups if available.
- Milk: The default is typically steamed water and lemonade, with steamed milk added. Customers frequently choose different milk alternatives like almond milk, soy milk, or oat milk for dairy-free options.
- Tea: The base drink uses Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea. Some customers might ask for just one of the teas, or a different tea altogether, though this deviates from the standard Medicine Ball.
- Lemonade: The amount of lemonade can be adjusted. Some prefer a stronger citrus kick, while others might want it diluted.
- Water: Some individuals request less water or more steamed milk to alter the tea-to-milk ratio.
Conversational Script for Ordering a Medicine Ball
This script demonstrates how to place a detailed order, including specific requests, in a friendly and efficient manner. Customer: “Hi there! Could I please get a Grande Medicine Ball?” Barista: “Sure thing! Any customizations for that?” Customer: “Yes, please. Could I have it made with almond milk instead of regular milk, and could you add just a little bit more honey, please?
And, if possible, could you make sure the lemonade is extra bright?” Barista: “So, a Grande Medicine Ball with almond milk, extra honey, and extra lemonade. Got it!” Customer: “Perfect, thank you!”
Customizing Your Medicine Ball Order
While the classic Starbucks Medicine Ball (officially the Honey Citrus Mint Tea) is a soothing go-to, it’s surprisingly versatile. Many people find their perfect cup by tweaking it a bit. Whether you’re aiming for a specific flavor, dietary need, or just a different level of sweetness, there are plenty of ways to make this drink your own.Understanding how different ingredients interact is key to unlocking your ideal Medicine Ball.
Let’s dive into the popular ways to customize this beloved beverage.
Popular Additions and Substitutions
The core of the Medicine Ball is its blend of Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea, sweetened with honey and lemonade. However, this foundation can be easily altered. Many opt to add a shot of vanilla syrup for a sweeter, more dessert-like profile, or a pump of raspberry syrup to introduce a fruity tang that complements the citrus and mint.
Some adventurous patrons even experiment with adding a splash of another syrup, like hazelnut, though this veers significantly from the original intent.When it comes to substitutions, the most common involves the milk. While steamed water is the default, many request steamed milk for a creamier texture. The type of milk used dramatically impacts the final taste and consistency.
Flavor Profiles of Milk and Sweetener Options
The choice of milk and sweetener can transform the Medicine Ball from a light, refreshing tea to a richer, more indulgent drink.
- Non-Dairy Milks:
- Almond Milk: Offers a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with the herbal teas, providing a lighter creaminess.
- Soy Milk: Adds a more pronounced, almost creamy sweetness and a slightly thicker texture.
- Oat Milk: Contributes a natural sweetness and a very smooth, velvety texture, often considered the creamiest non-dairy option.
- Coconut Milk: Imparts a distinct tropical note and a rich creaminess, which can be a delightful contrast or a dominant flavor depending on preference.
- Dairy Milks:
- Whole Milk: The richest option, providing maximum creaminess and a classic, comforting mouthfeel.
- 2% Milk: A good balance of creaminess and lightness.
- Non-Fat Milk: Offers the least amount of creaminess but still adds a subtle body to the drink.
- Sweeteners:
- Honey: The standard, offering a floral sweetness that complements the herbal notes.
- Classic Syrup (Simple Syrup): A neutral sweetness that allows the tea flavors to shine through more prominently.
- Sugar-Free Syrups: Available in various flavors (vanilla, cinnamon, etc.) for those watching their sugar intake, though they can sometimes leave a slight artificial aftertaste.
Dairy-Free Medicine Ball Customizations
For those avoiding dairy, the Medicine Ball is already a great starting point. The key is selecting the right non-dairy milk and ensuring any added syrups are dairy-free.Here’s a guide to crafting a delicious dairy-free Medicine Ball:
- Base: Start with the standard Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea.
- Liquid: Request steamed non-dairy milk instead of water. Oat milk is often preferred for its creamy texture, but almond or soy milk are also excellent choices.
- Sweetener: Honey is naturally dairy-free. If you prefer a different sweetener, classic syrup or sugar-free syrups are typically dairy-free as well. Always confirm with your barista if unsure about specific syrup ingredients.
- Optional Additions: Consider adding dairy-free syrups like vanilla or raspberry for extra flavor.
Adjusting Sweetness Levels
Controlling the sweetness of your Medicine Ball is straightforward and can be done by adjusting the amount of honey or other sweeteners used.
- Less Sweet: Ask for “less honey” or “half honey.” You can also request no honey at all and opt for a small amount of classic syrup or no added sweetener if you prefer the natural flavors of the tea.
- More Sweet: Request “extra honey” or specify the number of honey packets you’d like. If adding syrups, you can ask for an extra pump of vanilla or raspberry.
- Balanced Sweetness: The standard order is generally well-balanced, but if you find it too sweet or not sweet enough, you can always request “less honey” or “a little more honey.”
It’s important to remember that lemonade also contributes a level of sweetness and tartness. If you’re significantly reducing honey, the tartness of the lemonade will become more pronounced.
The art of customizing the Medicine Ball lies in understanding how each component—tea, lemonade, honey, and milk—interacts with potential additions and substitutions to create a personalized flavor experience.
The Starbucks App and Mobile Ordering
Ordering your favorite Starbucks Medicine Ball has never been easier, especially with the convenience of the Starbucks mobile app. This digital tool streamlines the entire process, from browsing the menu to customizing your drink and paying, all from your smartphone. It’s a fantastic way to save time and ensure your order is exactly as you like it, minimizing any potential for miscommunication.Using the Starbucks app is like having a personal barista at your fingertips.
You can explore all the drink options, find nutritional information, and even discover new seasonal offerings. For the Medicine Ball, the app provides a clear pathway to build your perfect cup, whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying it for the first time.
Locating and Selecting the Medicine Ball
Navigating the Starbucks app to find your desired drink is straightforward. The app is designed with user-friendliness in mind, making it easy to access both standard menu items and custom creations.The typical process involves these steps:
- Open the Starbucks app on your mobile device.
- Tap on the “Order” tab, usually located at the bottom of the screen.
- You’ll see a menu of categories. Look for “Hot Teas” or sometimes “Custom Drinks” depending on app updates.
- Scroll through the “Hot Teas” section. The “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” which is the official name for the Medicine Ball, is usually listed here.
- Tap on “Honey Citrus Mint Tea” to select it.
Ensuring Accuracy with Mobile Orders, How to order medicine ball starbucks
When ordering via the app, accuracy is paramount to getting your Medicine Ball just right. The app provides several layers of customization and confirmation to help you achieve this.To guarantee your order is precise:
- Double-check the drink name and size selected. The app will clearly display these before you proceed.
- Carefully review all customization options you’ve chosen. The app visually represents your selections.
- Confirm the store location is correct before finalizing. You can even see estimated pickup times.
- Look for a summary screen that details your entire order, including all modifications, just before you pay.
Customizing Your Medicine Ball in the Mobile Ordering Interface
The Starbucks app excels at allowing detailed customization, and the Medicine Ball is no exception. You can fine-tune every aspect of your drink to match your preferences.Here’s a typical sequence of actions for customizing your Medicine Ball within the app:
- After selecting the “Honey Citrus Mint Tea” and the desired size, tap the “Customize” button.
- You will be presented with various options. Start with the base ingredients. For the Medicine Ball, this includes the specific teas: Peach Tranquility and Jade Citrus Mint. The app usually defaults to the standard combination.
- Adjust the number of pumps of the included syrup. While the standard Medicine Ball often has a specific amount, you can request more or fewer pumps.
- Modify the milk. You can choose between whole milk, 2% milk, nonfat milk, soy milk, almond milk, or oat milk.
- Add or remove sweeteners. Honey is a key component; you can adjust the amount or opt for alternatives if available.
- Consider additions like extra tea bags or lemon slices, if these options are presented.
- Once all your customizations are made, tap “Add to Order” or a similar confirmation button.
The app provides a visual representation of your choices, making it easy to track your modifications. For example, if you select “Almond Milk” and “No Added Honey,” these will be clearly listed under your selected drink in the order summary.
“The Starbucks app transforms the ordering experience, putting precise control over your Medicine Ball right in your hands.”
Understanding Pricing and Variations
The cost of your Starbucks Medicine Ball isn’t set in stone; it can shift based on what you add or swap out. While Starbucks aims for a consistent price, customizations are where the numbers can start to climb. It’s good to have a general idea of how these changes can impact your final bill.The base price of a Starbucks Medicine Ball is generally competitive, but the real variation comes with personalizing your drink.
Think of it like building your own perfect remedy – each addition or substitution has a potential ripple effect on the price. Understanding these common adjustments can help you manage your expectations and make informed choices at the counter or on the app.
Customization Price Impact
When you start tweaking your Medicine Ball, several elements can influence the final cost. Milk alternatives, sweeteners, and extra flavor shots are the usual suspects. Starbucks often charges a small premium for non-dairy milks like almond, soy, or oat milk compared to their standard dairy options. Similarly, if you opt for sugar-free syrups or request an extra pump of honey or other sweeteners, this can also add to the overall price.Here’s a breakdown of how common add-ins can affect the price of your Medicine Ball.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines and actual prices can vary slightly by location and current Starbucks promotions.
| Customization | Potential Price Impact |
|---|---|
| Milk Type (e.g., Almond, Soy, Oat vs. Dairy) | Varies; typically an additional $0.50 – $0.80 |
| Sweetener (e.g., Honey, Stevia, extra pumps) | Varies; a small additional charge for specific sweeteners or extra pumps |
| Extra Syrups (e.g., Vanilla, Raspberry) | Varies; usually an additional $0.50 – $0.70 per syrup |
| Extra Tea Bags | Varies; may incur a small charge |
Regional Price Differences
Starbucks operates on a global scale, and pricing strategies can differ significantly from one region to another. Factors such as local economic conditions, cost of ingredients, rent, and even regional taxes can influence the final price of your Medicine Ball. For instance, a Medicine Ball ordered in a major metropolitan area might cost more than the exact same drink ordered in a smaller town or a different country.
These variations are standard practice in the retail and food service industries, ensuring that pricing remains relevant to the local market.
The cost of your Starbucks Medicine Ball is a dynamic figure, influenced by your personal choices and the economic landscape of its location.
Alternative Ways to Enjoy a Medicine Ball
While the Starbucks Medicine Ball is a delightful treat, its unique flavor profile can be easily replicated at home, offering a more cost-effective and customizable experience. Recreating this popular drink allows you to control the ingredients, adjust sweetness, and enjoy it whenever the craving strikes without a trip to the coffee shop.The beauty of a DIY Medicine Ball lies in its simplicity and the accessibility of its core components.
You don’t need fancy barista equipment to achieve a similar, satisfying result. Understanding the basic elements of the drink is the first step to becoming your own at-home beverage maker.
Replicating a Medicine Ball at Home
Recreating the Starbucks Medicine Ball at home is surprisingly straightforward, primarily requiring a few key ingredients that are readily available in most grocery stores. The essence of the drink comes from the combination of herbal teas and a touch of sweetness, often enhanced with steamed milk. By gathering these components, you can craft a beverage that closely mimics the original, offering a comforting and soothing experience.
DIY Starbucks Medicine Ball Recipe
This recipe provides a close approximation of the Starbucks Medicine Ball, allowing for personalization.
Ingredients:
- 1 Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Tea bag
- 1 Teavana Peach Tranquility Tea bag
- 8 ounces hot water
- 4 ounces steamed milk (dairy or non-dairy, such as almond, oat, or soy)
- 1 to 2 teaspoons honey, or to taste
- Optional: A splash of lemonade for added tang
Instructions:
- Steep both tea bags in 8 ounces of hot water for about 5 minutes.
- Remove the tea bags.
- If using, stir in honey until dissolved.
- Add a splash of lemonade if desired.
- Steam your milk until frothy.
- Pour the steamed milk into the tea mixture.
- Stir gently to combine.
Homemade Versus Store-Bought Medicine Balls
The comparison between a homemade and a store-bought Starbucks Medicine Ball reveals significant advantages for the DIY approach. Financially, the cost savings are substantial. Purchasing individual tea bags and a carton of milk is considerably cheaper per serving than buying a single drink from Starbucks, especially if you plan to enjoy it regularly. For example, a single Medicine Ball can cost upwards of $5, while the ingredients for several homemade versions can be purchased for a similar price.Taste-wise, the homemade version offers unparalleled control.
You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of honey or choosing a different sweetener altogether. The type of milk used also impacts the flavor and texture; some may prefer the creaminess of whole milk, while others might opt for the lighter profile of almond or oat milk. Furthermore, you can experiment with the steeping time of the teas to achieve your preferred strength.
While Starbucks has perfected its blend, the ability to fine-tune your drink at home ensures it perfectly matches your personal taste preferences.
Essential Ingredients for a Homemade Medicine Ball
To successfully create a Medicine Ball at home, a few key ingredients are essential. These components form the foundation of the drink’s signature flavor and soothing properties.
Core Ingredients:
- Herbal Tea Bags: Specifically, Teavana Jade Citrus Mint and Teavana Peach Tranquility are the primary teas used in the Starbucks version. These can often be found in specialty tea aisles or online retailers.
- Sweetener: Honey is the traditional sweetener for this drink, providing a natural sweetness and contributing to its perceived health benefits. Other sweeteners like agave nectar or maple syrup can be used as alternatives.
- Milk: Steamed milk is crucial for the creamy texture and comforting warmth. Options include dairy milk, almond milk, oat milk, soy milk, or coconut milk, allowing for dietary preferences and flavor variations.
- Hot Water: This is the base for steeping the teas and dissolving the sweetener.
Optional Enhancements:
- Lemonade: A small amount of lemonade can add a bright, tangy counterpoint to the sweetness and herbal notes, making the drink more complex.
- Fresh Ginger: For an extra kick and additional soothing properties, a thin slice of fresh ginger can be added during the tea steeping process.
Health and Wellness Aspects of the Medicine Ball
The Starbucks Medicine Ball, officially known as the “Honey Citrus Mint Tea,” has gained a reputation not just for its soothing taste but also for its perceived health benefits, especially when feeling under the weather. This section delves into why people reach for this drink and what makes its ingredients appealing from a wellness perspective.The appeal of the Medicine Ball largely stems from its carefully selected ingredients, each contributing to its comforting and potentially beneficial profile.
It’s a blend designed to offer a warm, hydrating, and gently flavored experience, making it a popular choice for those seeking a little pick-me-up.
Perceived Benefits of Medicine Ball Ingredients
The primary ingredients in the Starbucks Medicine Ball are steamed lemonade, hot water, a blend of Teavana Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea and Teavana Peach Tranquility Herbal Tea, and honey. Each component is often associated with certain wellness properties that contribute to the drink’s reputation.
- Lemonade: Provides vitamin C, an antioxidant known for its immune-supporting properties. The tartness can also be refreshing and invigorating.
- Green Tea (Jade Citrus Mint): Contains antioxidants called catechins, which are believed to support overall health and well-being. Green tea also has a modest amount of caffeine, which can offer a gentle energy boost.
- Herbal Tea (Peach Tranquility): This blend typically includes chamomile, which is known for its calming and relaxing properties. Peppermint, another common ingredient in this blend, can aid digestion and provide a refreshing sensation.
- Honey: Often used as a natural sweetener, honey has a long history of use in soothing sore throats and providing a comforting warmth. It also contains antioxidants.
Role of Tea and Honey in Medicine Ball Appeal
The combination of specific teas and honey is central to the Medicine Ball’s comforting and health-conscious image. The Jade Citrus Mint tea offers a bright, slightly citrusy base, while the Peach Tranquility herbal tea adds a layer of floral sweetness and a hint of fruitiness. This pairing creates a balanced flavor profile that is both stimulating and calming.Honey is more than just a sweetener here; it’s a key element in the “soothing” aspect of the drink.
Its viscous nature can coat the throat, providing temporary relief from irritation, and its natural sweetness makes the beverage more palatable, especially when one isn’t feeling their best.
The synergistic effect of the warm liquid, the gentle flavors of the teas, and the soothing properties of honey makes the Medicine Ball a go-to for many seeking comfort and a perceived wellness boost.
Considerations for Dietary Restrictions
While the Medicine Ball is generally considered a safe and beneficial choice for many, individuals with specific dietary restrictions should be aware of its components.
- Sugar Content: The lemonade and honey contribute to the overall sugar content of the drink. Those monitoring their sugar intake, particularly individuals with diabetes, should be mindful of this. Ordering with less honey or without the lemonade base can help reduce sugar.
- Caffeine: The Jade Citrus Mint Green Tea contains caffeine. While the amount is typically less than a standard cup of coffee, individuals sensitive to caffeine or looking for a caffeine-free option should consider this. The Peach Tranquility tea is caffeine-free.
- Allergies: While less common, some individuals might have sensitivities or allergies to specific ingredients within the Teavana blends, such as chamomile or mint. It’s always wise to inquire about the full ingredient list if you have severe allergies.
- Dairy-Free/Vegan: The standard Medicine Ball is dairy-free and vegan-friendly, provided no dairy-based syrups or milk alternatives are added during customization.
Closing Notes
So there you have it, folks! Ordering the Starbucks Medicine Ball is a breeze once you know the drill. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or trying it for the first time, remember that customization is key to making it your own perfect cup of comfort. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different milks, sweeteners, and even add-ins to find your ultimate flavor combo.
And hey, if you can’t make it to Starbucks, the DIY route is always a delicious backup. Go forth and conquer your Medicine Ball cravings!
FAQ Summary: How To Order Medicine Ball Starbucks
What exactly is in a Starbucks Medicine Ball?
It’s a mix of Jade Citrus Mint green tea, Peach Tranquility herbal tea, steamed lemonade, and honey. Some folks also add a pump of vanilla syrup for extra sweetness.
Can I get the Medicine Ball iced?
Absolutely! You can totally order it iced, and it’s just as refreshing. Just ask for it “iced” instead of hot.
Is the Medicine Ball good for colds?
Many people find the combination of ingredients, especially the honey, lemon, and mint, to be soothing when they have a cold or sore throat. It’s more of a comfort drink than a medical cure, though.
How do I make it dairy-free?
Just ask for non-dairy milk like almond, soy, or oat milk instead of regular steamed milk, or simply skip the milk altogether for a lighter, tea-forward version.
Can I order it without honey?
Yes, you can definitely ask for no honey. You can then add your own sweetener or just enjoy the natural flavors.