Erianin is primarily studied for its potential anticancer properties. It has shown inhibitory effects on the growth of various cancer cell lines by inducing apoptosis and blocking cell cycle progression. Research indicates it may suppress tumor angiogenesis, meaning it can inhibit the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow. It also demonstrates anti-inflammatory and antiviral activities in preclinical studies. Due to these biological effects, erianin is being explored as a lead compound in the development of new chemotherapeutic agents. Most current applications are within experimental and pharmaceutical research settings.