Practical Alchemy : A Guide to the Great Work

Alchemy is a means of understanding and working in concert with the energies of nature for spiritual development, healing, and transformation. In this book, Brian Cotnoir offers a step-by-step introduction that explores alchemy’s mysteries while illustrating its use as a modern spiritual system of attainment.

He provides an overview of the history of alchemy, from the first meldings of Egyptian technology to the Middle Ages—the golden age of alchemy—to contemporary techniques. He demystifies the relationship between alchemy and chemistry, and provides evidence that alchemy is much more than a medieval form of psychotherapy. The guide also includes practical laboratory experiments that safely and intelligently lead readers to an understanding of this ancient art and spiritual practice.

• Provides step-by-step instruction for beginning a practice in alchemy
• Explains the theory underlying the art and science of alchemy and how it works
• Demystifies the relationship between alchemy and chemistry, while going well beyond the “psychological interpretation” advanced by nonscientists
• Introduces the practice of alchemy to students of the Western magical arts

Brian Cotnoir is an alchemist, artist, and award-winning filmmaker. He was a contributor to Frater Albertus’s Parachemy and has presented workshops and seminars around the world on various aspects of alchemical theory and practice. He is the author of Alchemy: The Poetry of Matter and translator of The Emerald Tablet. To find out more about Brian’s work visit www.khepripress.com.

James Wasserman is a lifelong student of esotericism. His writings include The Mystery Traditions and Aleister Crowley and The Practice of the Magical Diary. He lives in New York City with his wife, Nancy. Visit him at www.studio31.com.