Specific questions related to modification of endogenous antioxidant enzymes in prevalent asthma that this investigation aims to address are whether induction of antioxidant enzymes can alter inflammatory markers in asthma that are known to be linked with clinical endpoints, lung function and oxidant stress. Measurements of antioxidant enzymes will be made in blood samples prior to and following administration of silymarin; measures of systemic oxidative stress will be made in urine samples using an assay for isoprostanes, considered the most accurate marker of oxidative stress currently available; measures of airway inflammation will be measured using exhaled NO, and lung function testing and symptom control will be assessed as clinical measures of disease control.