Of course a true peppermint plant is a hybrid mint, a cross between watermint and spearmint. This is a sterile plant that does not produce seeds. We have tested many types of peppermint seeds over the years, and these seeds from Jelitto Seeds in Germany produce the closest thing ( we mean really close ) to the true plant.

A beautiful plant with purple flowers and purple tinged leaves. Its fragrance is used in many different ways. The plant likes moist areas.
Peppermint thrives best in full or partial sun, in a rich, drained loam that will retain water in summer. Not enough sun and the plant gets leggy. Not enough water or nutrients, and it can become susceptible to rust or mildew. Pests shouldn't be a problem.
During the growing season, keep cutting the mint to use it fresh or dry it (if you've got the space, freezing mint is one of the best ways we've seen to retain the herb's essential oils). Mint is a perennial that should come back easily year to year, although if your winters get really cold, a layer of mulch to protect the plant is advised.
Peppermint is used commercially to flavor a wide variety of products, from mouthwash to candies, ice creams to jellies. By itself or combined with other herbs to make a tea, it can't be beat, and adding peppermint oil to baths makes for a relaxing menthol soak.
Medicinally, peppermint has been used to alleviate a wide array of different conditions, including indigestion, sore throat, colds, headache, and cramps. By mildly anesthetizing the mucous membrane, it can prevent vomiting and help to quell nausea, and taken before eating it can increase bile flow, which helps to break down fats so your body can use them more effectively. It also may provide benefits for intestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome.