Biochanin A, a natural organic compound derived from herbal plants such as peanuts, soy, and red clover, possesses various pharmacological properties including antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. In addition, the compound has anticancer activity, which was shown in the following cells: head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and in osteosarcoma. In both cases, biochanin A induced apoptotic signaling pathway. It has also been found biochanin-A was an inhibitor of fatty acid amide hydrolase.

4-Methylesculetin is one of the coumarin derivatives with great anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. This molecule has been shown non-toxic effects and a promising potentiality to treat inflammatory diseases, especially those related to reactive oxygen species (ROS). 4-Methylesculetin (4-ME) causes the relaxation or inhibits the Angiotensin II (ATN 2) induced contraction in the smooth muscle, mediated by prostacyclin release. 4-methylesculetin showed similar efficacy to that obtained with either prednisolone or sulphasalazine, both in the acute phase of colitis as well as following a curative protocol. The intestinal anti-inflammatory activity by 4-methylesculetin is likely related to its ability in reduce colonic oxidative stress and inhibit pro-inflammatory cytokine production.