Kaempferol — the cannabis flavonoid in depth
Kaempferol is a flavonol with molecular formula C₁₅H₁₀O₆ and molar mass 286.24 g/mol. Outside cannabis, Kaempferol is also found in kale, spinach, broccoli, green tea, endive. Within the cannabis flower, flavonoids form the "third pillar" of phytochemistry alongside cannabinoids and terpenes. They are responsible for colour nuances of the leaves and flowers and are increasingly a focus of entourage-effect research.
flavonol · C₁₅H₁₀O₆ · colourless to pale-yellow pigment with UV-protective function in the plant
Chemistry
Chemically, Kaempferol is a flavonol. As a flavonol it carries a 3-hydroxy group on the C-ring — this favours antioxidant capacity. Combustion (>240 °C) largely destroys the flavonoid fraction; vaporisation at 170–200 °C preserves a much larger share.
Occurrence
Flavonoids typically make up 0.3–2.5 % of a cannabis flower's dry weight. Kaempferol is produced together with other phenols in the leaves and outer flower. colourless to pale-yellow pigment with UV-protective function in the plant — this partly explains colour differences between chemovars. Kaempferol is quantified by HPLC-DAD or LC-MS. Swiss COAs rarely list flavonoids today, but the analytics are established and should become standard as regulation progresses.
Effect
Preclinically antioxidant, anticancer (cell studies) and preclinically documented cardioprotective. Evidence: Calderón-Montaño et al. 2011 (review); Chen & Chen 2013. Legal note: in Switzerland, cannabis with ≥ 1 % THC is a narcotic. Flavonoids themselves are unregulated. Effect descriptions are not therapeutic claims.
FAQ
What is Kaempferol?
A flavonol with formula C₁₅H₁₀O₆, found in kale, spinach, broccoli, green tea, endive.
Does the concentration vary between strains?
Yes — depending on chemovar, cultivation and harvest. Total flavonoid fraction is 0.3–2.5 % of dry weight.
What is the effect of Kaempferol?
Preclinically antioxidant, anticancer (cell studies) and preclinically documented cardioprotective.
Is Kaempferol legal?
Yes. As a flavonoid it is unregulated and is used in food and nutraceuticals.
Does combustion destroy Kaempferol?
Largely yes. Above 240 °C the flavonoid fraction is destroyed. Vaporising at 170–200 °C preserves much more.