Effect

Potion effects are conferred by food items called Potions, which can be brewed using a Brewing Stand in Beta 1.9 Pre-release 3 in order to acquire the effects.

Parameters
Potion effects are given two parameters on creation: Duration (in ticks) and strength.

History
Potion effects were introduced in Beta 1.8. although no potions were added yet so they were used exclusively for in game actions such as sprinting.

in Beta 1.9 Pre-release 2 actual potions where added and some effects got an alchemical ingredient that correspond to them and Milk was given the ability to cure and clear all potion effects.

In 1.9 pre-releases 2-3 Ghast Tears were ingredients in potions of instant health, in 1.9 pre-release 4 they are used in potions of regeneration.

In 1.9 pre-release 4 Glistering Melons where introduced, as the new alchemical ingredient for instant health potions.