Kaempferol is a natural flavonoid found in various fruits, vegetables, and medicinal plants. Its use in the context of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is supported primarily by preclinical scientific evidence rather than a long history of traditional use. Multiple in vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that kaempferol possesses anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and immunomodulatory properties, which are relevant to the pathogenesis of RA. These studies indicate that kaempferol can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines (such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6), suppress the activation of NF-κB signaling pathways, and reduce oxidative stress in synovial tissues.

For example, research published in peer-reviewed journals has shown that kaempferol administration in animal models of RA leads to reduced joint swelling, decreased inflammatory cell infiltration, and lower levels of cartilage and bone destruction. However, it is important to note that, as of 2024, there are no robust clinical trials in humans directly supporting the efficacy of kaempferol as a treatment for RA. The current evidence is limited to laboratory and animal studies, and clinical relevance remains to be established. Hence, while kaempferol shows promise due to its pharmacological actions in preclinical research, its use for RA cannot be recommended based on high-level clinical evidence at this time.