White Alyssum

White Alyssum is a British gardener’s favourite. Easy to grow and long to bloom, it fills those gaps left by taller plants. The flower website Petal Republic considers its etymology:

Alyssum stems from the Latin “alysson,” which comes from the Greek “alusson.” In ancient Greek, “a” means “without” and “lussa” means “rabies.” This is a nod to the fact that the plant was used as a rabies treatment back in the day.

So a plant to cure the rabid. The NHS website indicates that treatment for Rabies is minimal, stating:

Rabies is found throughout the world, particularly in Asia, Africa, and Central and South America. It's not found in the UK, except in a small number of wild bats. Rabies is almost always fatal once symptoms appear, but treatment before this is very effective.

Eating Alyssum is not listed among the cures. Indeed, considering the clause I emphasised, I suspect nothing does. What might be a poor remedy is still an attractive flower. Paganism worships nature, giving it a power and divinity which it does not warrant. If we simply enjoy the natural world for what it is- the beautiful handiwork of a creator God- we shall appreciate it the more.

He causes the grass to grow for the cattle,
And vegetation for the service of man,
That he may bring forth food from the earth,
And wine that makes glad the heart of man,
Oil to make his face shine,
And bread which strengthens man’s heart.
The trees of the Lord are full of sap,
The cedars of Lebanon which He planted,
Where the birds make their nests... Psalm 104 14-17a