how do you use a mortar and pestle?

[Leadpainter]

I built an alchemy table and crafted a mortar and pestle but I can't figure out how to use either? trying to craft herbal swill gives me the "you need to be using a mortar and pestle" message. I figured that the mortar and pestle needs to go into the table inventory somehow, but it won't go in when I try to place it. what am I missing?

[gravesmerch]

required to craft Herbal Swill and Herbal Grind
https://ringofbrodgar.com/wiki/Alchemy#Herbal_Swill
wiki is kinda messy

[The_Blode]

You need the mortal and pesto equipped in your hands like a tool.
I don't know for sure but I was angry that the only response to your thread was from someone who clearly cannot read.

[vatas]

The two recipes that do NOT require an Alchemist Table, require you to hold the Mortar and Pestle in your hand slots, similar to Frying Pan or a Glass-Blowing Rod. Lets call this the first tier of alchemy.

Second tier is more or less building an Alchemist Table, then crafting the following and placing them on the table:

https://ringofbrodgar.com/wiki/Retort
https://ringofbrodgar.com/wiki/Tripod_Burner
https://ringofbrodgar.com/wiki/Testtube_Rack

This will unlock "Mineral Calcination" and "Measured Distillate" -processes, alongside "Mushroom Decoction" -elixir.

Third tier will start requiring expensive materials - one-time cost for two advanced tools requires "precious metal" (ie. gold or silver) and utilizing them consumes high amounts of Mercury and/or Lye.