Outlining the history, philosophy and techniques of the Western tradition of alchemy, as passed down from the Egyptians to the Ancient Greeks and Arabs, who introduced alchemy to Europe in the Middle Ages, this text also looks at the people who have kept the tradition alive, and how alchemy has achieved a role in science, mdeicine, philosophy, religion and the arts in the 21st century. It includes practical exercises including meditations, the understanding of the planets and numerology, with instructions on how to make alchemical tinctures and potions using everyday herbs and equipment.