Proteinases are enzymes that catalyse the breakdown of proteins. Proteinases are involved in many biological functions, including the digestion of ingested proteins, the breakdown of old proteins, and cell signalling.

Cirsiliol is a selective inhibitor of 5-lipoxygenase and a competitive low-affinity ligand of benzodiazepine receptors.

p-Hydroxyphenethyl vanillate is a Phenols product that can be isolated from the herbs of Notopterygium forbesii.