In the middle ages, there was a science called Alchemy. It was the forerunner of chemistry, and many men tried their luck with it, as it was believed that you could do things like turn lead into gold.

These high hopes were eventually dashed, but the practice did turn up some surprising findings.

For example, it was discovered that if you put some ordinary looking herbs into sea water when the moon is full, it would instantly vanish.

After all: thyme in tide waits for no man.