If a spellcaster isn't available and a magical effect is needed fast, potions are a practical resource. Drinking these vials of colored liquid has the same effect as the corresponding magic spell, yet can be used even in environments where magic doesn't work. Potions can be bought at an apothecary.
Potions first appeared in Ultima V. After that, they didn't change, apart from what is listed below. In Ultima IX, the system of potions was altered significantly. Also, a special potion called Serpentwyne appeared.
The potions are color-coded as follows:
| Potion | Effect |
| Yellow | Lesser Heal |
| Red | Cure from all poisons |
| Green | Poison |
| Blue | Makes a person fall asleep |
| Orange | Makes a person awaken |
| Black | Invisibility |
| White | Creates light* |
| Purple | Creates a temporary protection halo |
- Originally, white potions were X-Ray, but after an infamous peeping-tom case, this function was outlawed and changed.
On Serpent Isle, two additional potions appear:
- Red-yellow shimmering: Partial mana-boost.
- Black-Blue: Keeps a person warm in the cold north.
On Pagan, the potions have different uses:
| Potion | Effect |
| Yellow | Lesser Heal |
| Red | Full Heal (If healthy, causes damage) |
| Green | Poison |
| Blue | Makes a person (yourself) fall asleep |
| Orange | Partial mana boost |
| Black | Invisibility |
| Purple | Temporary invulnerability |
In Ultima IX, potions are as follows:
| Potion | Effect | Reagent |
| Red | Cure Poison | Garlic |
| Yellow | Heal | Ginseng |
| Blue | Water Breathing | Blood Moss |
| Orange | Mana Recovery | Spider Silk |
| Green | Poison | Nightshade |
| Purple | Invulnerability | Mandrake Root |
| White | Infernal Armour | Sulfurous Ash |
| Black | Invisibility | Black Pearl |
- In Ultima IX, potions can be distilled using the appropriate reagent and an alchemy set.