A sweet-smelling healing herb also known as kingsfoil, found in Middle-earth wherever the Numenoreans once dwelt. Its curative powers are greatly enhanced when applied by one of royal blood, connecting it to the ancient tradition of the healing hands of the king. During the War of the Ring, Aragorn uses athelas to treat those afflicted by the Black Breath of the Nazgul, and his ability to wield it is seen by the people of Gondor as proof that the king has returned.