Essential Nutrients and Essential Fatty Acids
Zinc, vitamin C, B3 (niacin), B6 (pyroxidine), magnesium, melatonin and quality proteins are all vital co-factors of Essential Fatty Acid (EFA) metabolism. 

As a result, deficiencies in any of these nutrients play an indirect role in eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and dihomo-gamma-linoleic acid (DGLA) production and metabolism, and thus, in associated inflammatory conditions, including asthma.

All of these nutrients function in delta-6-desaturase, one of the enzymes necessary for the conversion of EPA and DGLA, and, the conversion of linoleic acid to GLA. (see figure)

Likewise vitamins C and B6, and zinc are required for delta-5-desaturase. Deficiencies in these nutrients would therefore increase the inflammatory arachidonic acid productions found in asthma. 

Studies on populations of asthma patients have shown deficiencies in B-6, magnesium and vitamin C. 

These deficiencies suggest a possible associated reduction of EFA metabolism, and therefore an increase in inflammatory prostaglandins, and a reduction of anti-inflammatory prostaglandins.

It is suggested that supplementation of these nutrients would benefit enzyme nutrient deficiency, and therefore, a reduction of inflammation in asthma.