Baicalin is a flavonoid compound derived from the roots of Scutellaria baicalensis (Chinese skullcap), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb. There is a growing body of preclinical scientific evidence suggesting that baicalin possesses anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory properties relevant to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In vitro studies have shown that baicalin can inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, which play significant roles in the pathogenesis of RA. Animal models of RA, such as collagen-induced arthritis in mice and rats, have demonstrated that baicalin administration can reduce joint inflammation, cartilage destruction, and bone erosion. These effects are thought to be mediated through the suppression of NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways, which are critical in the inflammatory response.

However, clinical evidence in humans is lacking. There are no large-scale, high-quality randomized controlled trials evaluating baicalin as a treatment for RA in patients. Most evidence remains at the preclinical stage, and while the results are promising, they do not yet provide robust scientific validation for its therapeutic use in RA. Therefore, the evidence supporting baicalin for RA is rated as 2/5, reflecting encouraging laboratory and animal data but insufficient clinical research.