Used in the pharmaceutical industry as a key starting material for the synthesis of steroid hormones such as progesterone, cortisone, and other corticosteroids. It serves as a precursor in the production of oral contraceptives and anti-inflammatory drugs. Also investigated for its potential anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and cholesterol-lowering properties in herbal and traditional medicine formulations. Commonly extracted from plant sources for use in hormone replacement therapies and in the development of synthetic steroids.