Peppermint
Mentha piperita
Family:
Lamiaceae, Mint family
Where to find this herb:
cultivated worldwide
Part(s) used:
leaves
Special constituents:
Essential oil containing menthyl acetate, menthol, and menthone
Correspondance:
Mercury/Fire (Cunningham); Venus (Beyerl)
Uses:
Antiseptic, carminative, antispasmodic, diaphoretic, stomachic and aromatic
Pepermunt 
Pebermynte Description:
Peppermint is thought to be a hybrid between Watermint (Mentha aquatica) and Spearmint (Mentha spicata). Mints are happy to hybridize, and often do so in nature, so there are a huge number of mints available. I find it quite impossible to get a grip on all the kinds, and have concentrated on a few varieties that I like.
Peppermint is nowadays more enjoyed for its taste than used for strictly medicinal purposes. However, it is highly recommended in case of stomach upsets and nausea, also in cases of nervousness and panic. It soothes the nervous system and clears the mind. Very good for studying also, one becomes clear in the head but don't get the bad effects of e.g. caffeine. Most people can tolerate Peppermint tea in large amounts, except by persons with hyperpepsia, where it can worsen the condition.
Growing mints:
The "real" peppermint is a hybrid and said to be sterile; it can only be grown from cuttings. However, peppermint seeds are often sold. Don't ask!
Most mints like a bit of shade, but can also grow in full sun. Give them plenty of water. Some are very invasive, and send shoots out everywhere, so it can be a good idea to keep them restricted in a container. Some mints are sensitive to mint-rust - if you buy one commercially, check for this. Apart from rust, they are easy to grow and don't require much attention. Harvest leaves just when they start to flower. If you have more kinds of mints, be aware that they might hybridize!
Peppermint should be replanted every 2-3 years. When grown for a long time in the same place, it transforms and gets more curly leaves, and the taste and odor changes as well.