Another important aspect of the The Witcher is the Alchemy system. Components can be gathered from fallen monsters and combined in different ways to produce elixirs. CD Projekt hinted at a large number of recipes and far-ranging optional sidequests to obtain more obscure recipes and components. In an interesting twist, every elixir has a poisonous side effect, with each consumed adding to the level of poison in Geralt's system - and ultimately fatal. Meditation in a tavern or safe area cleanses the effects but players will have to weigh the benefits of elixirs against the increasing danger.​