Balanophonin shows potent α-glucosidase inhibitory activity, it has antioxidant, and anti-cancer activities. (±)-Balanophonin shows significant antibacterial activity against cariogenic oral streptococci, Streptococcus mutans and S. sobrinus.

4-Hydroxy-L-(+)-2-phenylglycine is a carnitine palmitoyltransferase-1 inhibitor. 4-Hydroxy-L-(+)-2-phenylglycine improves whole-body glucose tolerance and insulin sensitivity in high-fat diet-induced obese mouse with insulin resistance.

Allitol is a substrate for the production of L-form ketoses and aldoses.