OK, Here is what I could find about Athelas;
Quote:
this plant was of great healing virtue brought to Middle-Earth, it is said, by the Numenoreans of the Second Age. It grew sparsely in the North and lnly in places where the Men of Westernesse had passed. The plant was certainly known in Numenor, here the Valinorean name asea aranion was used; but in Gondor, where this 'kingsfoil' grew abundantly, its healing properties were unknown and the leaves were esteemed only for their refreshing scent. Nonetheless, by some trick or chance, the wives of the Southkingdom still repeated, without understanding its true meaning;
When the black breath blows
and death's shadow grows
come athelas! come athelas!
Life to the dying
In the king's hand lying!
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Why it works for the King is not mentioned.