It was a tradition long ago, when the world was dark and full of woe – Riddle

Solve the riddle:

It was a tradition long ago,
When the world was dark and full of woe.
When men turned darkness into light,
By mixing, melting and decanting in the night,
To seek for youth and gold and riches,
Just to be burned as witches.

What is it?

Below you will find a hint and the correct answer to the riddle.

Little hint:

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Hint: Al*h*m*

Right answer:

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Answer: Alchemy.