What is alchemist?

Alchemists were practitioners of a medieval branch of natural philosophy that dealt with the transformation of matter, particularly metals. They sought to transmute base metals into noble metals like gold and silver, create elixirs of immortality, and develop medicines that could cure disease. Alchemy influenced the development of modern chemistry and scientific thought, as well as cultural and literary works. The practice was also closely tied to spiritual and mystical beliefs, incorporating aspects of astrology, magic, and metaphysics. Many famous historical figures dabbled in alchemy, including Isaac Newton, Paracelsus, and John Dee.