Alchemy, an ancient practice, combined metallurgy, medicine, chemistry, religion, and mysticism in an attempt to achieve multiple objectives. One such objective was to transform common metals into precious ones, symbolizing the alchemist's aspiration to bring the Universe closer to its highest potential, both physically and spiritually. Another goal was to discover an elixir capable of curing all diseases and extending human life expectancy indefinitely while maintaining optimal health. Alchemists believed in an unbreakable bond between the physical and the spiritual/metaphysical realm.