Starbucks Cold Buster: Cure-All or Myth?

Spring has officially sprung and with that, unfortunately, comes the sniffles and nasty colds. Getting sick so close to finals is no fun, but have no fear Starbucks apparently has the cure.

Recently the ‘Cold Buster’ has popped up on the Internet as the new Starbucks secret menu must-try item. According to starbuckssecretmenu.net the drink was created by barista Matthew L. and went public on his blog. This cure-all consists of two types of Teavana tea, steamed lemonade, and honey. Check out the full recipe below.

A spokesperson for Starbucks told Today that it began seeing more orders for this tea pop up in October of 2016, but the real question is: Does it actually work? Two writers from Buzzfeed tried the tea and both said that it is “refreshing,” and at only $3 it is pretty inexpensive.

“I believe that drinking warm drinks with honey can be soothing specifically if one is suffering from symptoms of sore throat and hoarse voice. Honey may also have some anti-microbial properties that may help fight off the cold,” said Dr. Margarita Rohr, a physician at the NYU Langone Medical Center. “Additionally, menthol found in mint may help clear nasal passages temporarily and can have a cooling effect.”

While ordering it seems like a hassle, more and more baristas are becoming familiar with the order by name. But, if you have order anxiety it is not too complex to make at home! Start by heating up a mixture of half water and half lemonade, then steep two bags of tea in the mixture and stir in your preferred amount of honey. Sip while it is still hot for optimal results.

Starbucks Cold Buster:

• Venti Cup w/ a bag of Jade Citrus Mint Tea and a bag of Peach Tranquility Tea
• Add half hot water and half steamed lemonade
• Add a little honey for its anti-microbial effects
• Optional, but highly recommended: Add a pump of peppermint

I recently tried this not-so-secret concoction and was pleasantly surprised. While I did chicken out when it came to ordering steamed lemonade, I opted for 100% hot water and the drink was still delicious and cleared up my stuffy nose while soothing my sore throat.

Have an opinion on the ‘Cold Buster?’ Tweet us at @valleymag and let us know what you think!