Qin Jiao (Gentiana macrophylla Pall.), known in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) as a herb for dispelling wind-dampness, has a long history of use in the management of musculoskeletal disorders, including conditions resembling rheumatoid arthritis (RA). In TCM, it is traditionally prescribed to "relieve pain, reduce inflammation, and benefit joints," and appears in classical formulas such as "Qin Jiao Bie Jia Tang" for chronic arthritic symptoms and joint pain. These traditional uses are grounded in centuries of empirical experience and are well documented in ancient texts and modern TCM pharmacopeias.

Scientifically, there is limited but emerging evidence to support Qin Jiao’s anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects, which are relevant to RA. Some in vitro and animal studies suggest that extracts of Gentiana macrophylla may inhibit the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines and modulate immune responses. However, robust clinical trials in humans are lacking, and the available evidence is insufficient to draw strong conclusions about efficacy or safety for RA by Western medical standards.

In summary, Qin Jiao's use for RA is primarily justified by traditional practice, with some preliminary scientific findings that suggest a plausible effect but fall short of high-quality clinical validation.