Kaempferol is a type of flavonoid found in plants. Studies have shown that it can improve sleep quality, support intestinal health and control weight gain.
The Japanese company will be launching its latest product under the brand /zeroz.
The product, which comes in tablet form, contains 10mg of kaempferol derived from horseradish leaves as the only active ingredient.
Kaempferol was chosen after assessing 341 types of high-altitude foods from around the world.
“Otsuka focused on the dietary habits of high‑altitude populations living in low‑oxygen environments, exploring how these communities adapt to reduced oxygen levels. Through an examination of 341 types of high-altitude foods from around the world, we have identified kaempferol, a plant-derived component, as a key ingredient,” the company said in a press release. “Further investigation revealed that the leaves of horseradish contain a particularly high level of kaempferol.”
According to the company, taking at least 10mg of kaempferol per day could help support wellbeing by enhancing the effective use of oxygen – which is also the function of the product.
“/zeroz was developed under the concept of ‘active inner resource’, which differs from the conventional approach of supplementing missing nutrients or components. Instead, it aims to activate the body’s innate capabilities. By helping the body make more effective use of oxygen, it serves as a self‑conditioning food that supports a healthy everyday life,” the company said.
The product will be launched exclusively for subscription customers via online purchase starting on March 17.
13 years of research
The company said it has spent 13 years of research on the benefits of kaempferol, as well as conducting safety and absorption efficiency studies.
A pilot study published in the International Journal of Biometeorology last July reported that taking 10 mg of kaempferol daily for four weeks could reduce the frequency, duration, and severity of physical and mental symptoms associated with meteoropathy or weather-related pain.
A total of 458 individuals who experienced moderate weather-related symptoms, including headaches, shoulder and neck stiffness and fatigue, took part in the study.
Effects of kaempferol supplementation were assessed using questionnaire before and after the intervention.
Significant reductions in frequency, duration and severity of all assessed subjective symptoms were reported after the intervention.
Overall, over 80% of participants reported some degree of improvement in their overall symptoms.
Citing a study published in 2024, the researchers said that research have shown that kaempferol intake could enhance oxygen uptake and oxygen utilization efficiency. Since symptoms such as headaches and sluggishness are associated with hypoxia and oxygen utilization, kaempferol could have reduced the symptoms by increasing oxygen uptake.
“These findings suggest that kaempferol is a promising non-pharmacological strategy for managing weather-related physical and mental symptoms by targeting oxygen utilization and autonomic regulation,” the researchers wrote.
Making it more bioavailable
Kaempferol can be found in fruits and vegetables such as ginger, cauliflower, grapefruit and green teas.
However, the ingredient exists mainly in a glycoside form in plants – a form which is said to be water-soluble.
To make it more bioavailable, the company has converted it into its aglycone form using its proprietary processing technology. The aglycone form is also lipophilic, which makes it more readily absorbed by the body.
