Kaempferol – what it is, what it is for, benefits and side effects!

Kaempferol is one of many flavonoids found in foods alongside others like luteolin and quercetin. It is showing promise in itself and for being an anti – obesity agent and an anti-cancer agent. Pure kaempferol is a yellow powder.

Amphoral is one of the most important and widespread flavonoids (containing the typical structure of C6-C3-C6). Kaempferol inhibits the growth and angiogenesis of cancer cells and induces apoptosis of cancer cells, but on the other hand, it appears to preserve normal cell viability, in some cases exerting a protective effect.

The aim of this review is to synthesize information on kaempferol extraction , as well as to provide information on the molecular basis of its potential chemo-preventive activities, with an emphasis on its ability to control intracellular signaling cascades that regulate the aforementioned processes. Nanotechnology chemoprevention to improve kaempferol bioavailability is also discussed.

What is kaempferol?

Kaempferol is a natural flavonol, a type of flavonoid, which occurs in multiple plants and is present in many foods derived from vegetables and fruits . In its pure state, kaempferol is a yellowish crystalline solid with a melting point of 276-278 °C, slightly soluble in water and strongly soluble in heated ethanol, ethers, and DMSO.

From a physiological point of view, it acts as an antioxidant by reducing oxidative stress and several studies suggest that consumption of this flavonoid can reduce the risk of various cancers in humans.

What is kaempferol used for?

As previously reported, due to its many properties, kaempferol helps to treat and prevent various diseases such as: cancer , cardiovascular disease, diabetes , allergies, inflammation and many other health conditions.

Health benefits of kaempferol:

1. Fight against osteoporosis:

Kaempferol is good for people suffering from osteoporosis . In one study, the flavonoids quercetin and kaempferol were found to significantly increase alkaline phosphate (ALP) activity, which can stimulate osteoblastic activity.

2. Prevents arteriosclerosis:

Kaempferol is known to be a potent antioxidant and aids in preventing oxidative damage to our cells and DNA. This mechanism is also believed to help this flavonoid prevent atherosclerosis from occurring .

3. Fight against cancer:

The flavonoids kaempferol and quercetin work synergistically by reducing the cell proliferation of cancer cells, being more efficient if they work individually. A study on “the inhibition of P-glycoprotein function and expression of kaempferol and quercetin” carried out by the University in Thailand, found that kaempferol fights cancer, reduces the resistance of cancer cells to anti- cancer substances such as yinbalstine and paclitax.

4. Increases metabolism:

Kaempferol also acts as an antidepressant and boosts metabolism . In addition, it acts as a phytoestrogen, which regulates estrogen levels in the body. It is also known to prevent arteriosclerosis , heart disease , and osteoporosis .

5. Decreases the risk of cardiovascular diseases:

It also decreases the risk of cardiovascular disease. One study found that, through changes in  lipoprotein metabolism , oxidative stress , and inflammatory markers, nutrient intake beneficially affected key coronary heart disease risk factors in pre- and post-menopausal women.

6. Has analgesic effects:

The study found that kaempferol , along with other flavonoids such as apigenin and luteolin, has the analgesic and anti-inflammatory effects contained in Cassia siamea Lam. stem bark extracts.

7. It has antioxidant action:

Keampferol is a strong antioxidant and helps prevent oxidative damage to our cells, lipids and DNA.

8. Regulates estrogen in the body:

Kaempferol acts as a phytoestrogen , which regulates estrogen levels in the body. It is also known to prevent arteriosclerosis , heart disease, and osteoporosis .

9. Prevents from breast cancer:

Estrogen receptors are important both in maintaining a normal mammary gland and in the development of  primary and secondary breast cancer . Kaempferol has been shown to interact with the estrogen receptor pathway and change signaling in order to help slow growth.

This compound exhibits ability to lower aromatase levels. Kaempferol was also found to induce apoptosis in breast cancer cells through activation of extracellular kinase ½ activation and upregulation of p53.

10. Combat leukemia:

Kaempferol has been shown to reduce growth in promyelocytic leukemia cells by altering the cell cycle.

10. Diabetes:

A correlation was found between increased levels of dietary kaempferol and a reduced relative risk of type 2 diabetes in a 2005 cohort study. In addition, 6-methoxykemempferol-3-O-β-D-robinobioside was shown to have inhibitory activity. significant amount of aldose reductase, which plays an important role in diabetic complications.

Kaempferol deficiency:

The risk of dietary flavonoid deficiency is basically synonymous with low intake of whole, natural foods and, in particular, low intake of vegetables and fruits. By far the best way to ensure an ample intake of flavonoids is to maximize your intake of natural whole foods, including fresh, brightly colored vegetables and fruits, whose flavonoid pigments give them their vibrant colors. This approach sounds simple and is a great method to increase your flavonoid intake.

How to consume kaempferol :

The consumption of kaempferol can be consumed every day through two cups (500 ml) of broccoli or four cups (1000 ml) of black or green tea every day is enough to get this health benefit of this substance.

Kaempferol side effects:

Fruits and vegetables have high concentrations of the nutrient and a relatively low risk of side effects. If you are interested in taking herbal supplements, it is important to remember that these compounds are not regulated by the FDA. Be sure to buy these items from reputable sources, as some may be contaminated with toxic materials or other drugs.

It’s always a good idea to call your doctor or pharmacist before starting new supplements. Some may interact with certain medications. Pregnant or nursing women should also be sure to check with a medical professional before starting any new supplements.