∴ Introduction

The potions within this book are considered advanced in as much as each of them is not only difficult to produce, but also contain the possibility of being disastrous if brewed incorrectly. Students should only attempt potions herein under the supervision and tutelage of a Potion Master.

Nomenclature in advanced potion making as an art, and not simply as the title of this work, can be quite confusing due to the fact the chemical names often bear no relation to composition. For example, lead sulphide is sometimes referred to as the "black sulphur root" because of its colour and the heat used in its preparation from sulphur. While the authors of this book have taken every measure to ensure use of only the most common nomenclatures, mistakes should be avoided by cross-referencing the symbol chart as much as possible; students may also wish to keep a personal copy in a separate notebook. It is advisable for students to take careful note of processes as outlined within; Distillation, Coagulation, Dissolution, Filtration, Calcination, Deconstruction & Reconstruction, Infusion, Crushing, Cutting, Boiling, Scalding and Straining. Each of these processes are unique in effect, and students should not interchange them without the express guidance of a Potion Master.

∴ A note on alchemy as proto-magic

A common misperception of ancient alchemists is that they were pseudo wizards who attempted to turn lead into gold, create love from concoction alone, and believed that the universe was composed of only four elements of earth, air, fire and water.

This picture was, obviously, rather unfair. Although some ancient alchemists were indeed crackpots and charlatans, most were well-meaning and intelligent wizards. These people in many ways served as innovators, and attempted to explore and investigate the nature of chemical substances and processes. They had to rely on experimentation, traditional know how, rules of thumb, and speculative thought in their attempts to uncover the mysteries of the magical universe.

At the same time, it was clear to the alchemists that "something" was generally being conserved in chemical processes, even in the most dramatic changes of physical state and appearance; i.e. that substances contained some"principles" that could be hidden under many outer forms, and revealed by proper manipulation. Throughout the history of the discipline, alchemists struggled to understand the nature of these principles, and find some order and sense in the results of their experiments - which were often undermined by impure or poorly characterized reagents, the lack of quantitive measurements, and confusing and inconsistent nomenclature.

∴ Relationship between wizard and potion

While the use of wands, incantations, and general skill are all relevant in general N.E.W.T. level potion making, they are even more so herein. Students should be mindful of their own abilities and should not attempt recipes they do not feel equipped to handle. It should be said that this is not a shortcoming, and that the greatest Potion Masters in history have all had certain potions they would not attempt.

This book does not, therefore, contain any potions which would allow the students to build up a false sense of self, thereby opening the gateway to greater peril in later studies. The book begins by introducing alchemy, equipment and ingredients, then moves onto a chapter on "Nearly Impossible Potions" and continues thusly.

Students unable to complete all the potions in this book should not be discouraged. An experienced potions master, is, however, a necessity for many careers in the wizarding world and students seeking Ministry occupations such as Aurors or Obliviators should set their mind to accomplishing as much as magically possible.

∴ A final thought from the publishers

Potions are tools, just like spells. Keep your cauldron as close as your wand; in mind and heart, if not in reality. With study, determination and a little hard work you can learn to bewitch the mind and ensnare the senses. A true Potion Master can bottle fame, brew glory, and even put a stopper in death. If that doesn't excite you, you may be in the wrong class.

Good luck!