Garden of Death by Chrystle Fiedler Page A

firmed up dirt around the new plant and pointed to a patch of calendula. Calendula was one of my favorite remedies. Its bright orange and yellow petals were used in an essential oil that was an astringent, an antiseptic, and an anti-inflammatory. It was good for everything from rashes, cuts, and wounds to insect bites and even a soothing facial.
    â€œI had to replace two of the calendula plants, but the rest of it was okay,” Jackson told me. “Nate’s almost done in the back and then he’s setting up the booth in front with Wallace, so I think you’re in good shape for your garden tours and merchandising. I’m going to work on the patio next, after I fill up these holes. Qigong’s good company, but he does like to dig.”
    But when he saw the look on my face, he knew something was very wrong. We told him what had happened and what Simon had already done to fix it.
    Wordlessly, Jackson put down the spade he had been using, took off his gloves, and wrapped me in a big bear hug. He knew what this meant and how hard we had both worked on the garden. The idea of it being destroyed was simply unbearable.
    Since no one was around, I let myself cry, knowing that it would bring healing. Jackson held me while I did, until I was calm again. When I was done, I pulled a few tissues out of my bag and wiped my face. I picked up Qigong and he happily licked the rest of my tears away.
    â€œIt’s going to be fine. Simon and I will make sure of it.”
    â€œYou two, you’re going to work together?”
    We had collaborated on the last case at the historic Bixby estate and fortunately, everything had ended well, but I was still a little surprised by how positive he sounded about their new partnership. But when I thought about it, it made sense. Jackson loved me, and so he was putting my welfare first, even though Simon drove him crazy at times.
    â€œSure, we’re the Three Musketeers, right?” Jackson said. “Simon will take care of the lawyer stuff, and I’ll make sure the garden is in good shape, while you givetours and take care of Nature’s Way.”
    â€œAnd solve the case,” Simon said. “Don’t forget that.”
    I smiled at them, feeling supported, relieved, and much calmer. “You can count on me.”

chapter ten
    Willow McQuade’s Favorite
Medicinal Plants
    DANDELION
    Botanical name: Taraxacum officinale
    Medicinal uses:Dandelion is one of the planet’s most famous and useful weeds. Historically, it has been used to treat liver disease, kidney disease, and spleen problems. The entire dandelion plant is useful as a medicine and a food. Dandelion greens are edible and a rich source of vitamin A, iron, calcium, and minerals. Dandelion is also often used as a mild diuretic for fluid retention, and a liver tonic to help purify the blood. Dandelion can also be used to help clear the body of old emotions such as anger and fear that can be stored in the liver and kidneys. In addition, dandelion can be used to treat mild digestive problems and various skin conditions.
    As a flower essence, dandelion reduces tension, especially muscular tension in the neck, back, andshoulders. It fosters spiritual openness and encourages the letting go of fear and trusting in your own ability to cope with life. Use the fresh or dried leaves and roots of the dandelion, or the whole plant, in teas, capsules, and extracts. Try putting dandelion leaves into your salad, use it as a cooked green, and even use the flowers to make wine.
    Much as I wanted to find Dr. White’s killer, we only had about an hour before tours started, and I needed to turn my focus to more immediate things—finishing up repairs on the garden. But I was interrupted by the arrival of Sandra and Martin Bennett.
    When Simon spotted them he grabbed my arm and whispered in my ear, “That’s the woman that Kylie was talking to at the farmer’s market.”
    â€œReally? Are you