Alchemy

Alchemy is a precursor to modern Chemistry, and makes use of Astrology, belief in the Five Basic Elements, and the Metallurgy; which is the study of Metals. Alchemy focuses on medicine derived not from plants, but from the metals of the Earth. Silver for example, increases the efficiency of antibodies, which would make it a good preventive medicine if it didn't have a chance to turn one's body a grey-blue if consumed in large quantities over a period of time. Alchemy is most remembered however for concepts such as The Philosopher's Stone, and the pursuit of Gold; that is, to turn lead into gold. Not only would such a process have the power to make it's wielder rich, but according to some sects the drinking of the compound with this power could turn one into a being of perfection, cleansing their soul of all ills. Despite such aims, Alchemy by the late 1700s had become a precursor science, using lab equipment developed over the years, and a system of formatic equation. Alchemist by the 1800s had begun to use the scientific method, and as they began to shy away from the more spiritual side of the trade, Chemistry was formed by keeping what was deemed scientifically solid.