[Psycho]

You can brew extremely powerfull potions if you have the right equipment. The better the mortar, retort,... the more powerfull the potions, even with low alchemy skill you get some cool potions.
But you need high alchemy to see all the effects an ingredient has.
You can store all the ingredients and equipment in a closet so you don't have to carry all. Once you get to know some good combo's potion making gets a lot easier, and can earn you tons of money.

I think you need Alchemy as a master if you're playing a magic char, because it's harder for them to earn enough money to buy potions and training. If you have a combat, or stealth char I think enchant or restoration are more helpfull, except if your going for the ultimate do-all character.

Don't take Alchemy as a minor skill... major or nothing.

Signed,
One sick Psycho