Helenalin is primarily utilized in biomedical research due to its potent anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties. It functions by inhibiting the activation of NF-kB, a key transcription factor involved in inflammation and cancer progression. This makes it a valuable compound for studying pathways related to these conditions. Additionally, helenalin is explored for its potential in developing therapeutic agents targeting diseases such as arthritis and certain types of cancer. Its ability to induce apoptosis in cancer cells further underscores its significance in oncology research. However, its application is currently limited to laboratory studies, as further research is needed to assess its safety and efficacy in clinical settings.