Cold Cures

The best analysis of the common cold, its treatment, and related ailments ever to hit book shelves. It neither dimisses nor raises up, and thus does not take for granted, any aspect of this confounding illness. And yet, in doing so, it provides the clearest picture regarding infection, transmission, and treatment. Every element of discussion is loaded with analysis of scientific studies and balanced with humor and common sense. The only thing keeping it from a five-star rating is that it is nearly 20 years old. I would love to see an updated version with recent studies and clinical trials included. The book discusses Ephedra use, which of course is now an illegal substance. It also just begins to touch on zinc, which is growing in stature as a cold remedy. Still, even an unrevised original version would be an important handbook for every family.