Potions as Magic (was Re: muggle baiting vs. muggle torture)

[justcarol67]

No: HPFGUIDX 155337

zgirnius wrote:
> > I would disagree with you that nonmagical people can brew potions. 
> > My impression is that it requires magic to make potions out of the
ingredients. I cite no less an authority then Professor Snape in
support of my opinion:
> >
> > "As there is little foolish wand-waving here, many of you will 
hardly believe this is magic."
> >
> > (But it is, seems to be the implication).
> 
> random832:
> It could well be that the only magic involved is that naturally
present in the ingredients.
>
Carol responds:

I was under the impression that JKR was once asked whether a Muggle
could brew a potion given the proper ingredients and directions and
her answer was no, but unfortunately I can't find the interview.
However, since Snape calls refers to "the subtle science and exact art
that is potion-making" and in the same speech refers to potion-making
as "magic" (as quoted by zgirnius), I think it's extremely unlikely
that a Muggle, even a scientist, could brew a potion. Not even all
wizards are good at it. (Lupin can't make his own wolfsbane potion,
and Ron isn't gifted at it, either.) 

Also, some potions, at least at NEWT level, must be stirred with a
wand (HBP), which would be a mere stick in the hands of a Muggle or a
Squib. (If it weren't, Mrs. Figg would be able to Transfigure a tea
bag by pointing a wand at it and reciting the proper spell.)

IMO, and I realize that I can't prove this assertion but it seems to
me to be in character, Snape would no more teach a course that could
be taught to Muggles than he would wear a purple turban (with or
without Voldemort inside it). 

Carol, who thinks that Snape's gift for potion making is evidence not
only of his genius, a trait that a Muggle might share, but of his
unusual range of magical skills and powers