Used as a reagent in clinical laboratories to test for the presence of proteins in urine. It works by causing proteins to precipitate, leading to turbidity in the solution, which can be visually assessed or measured. This test helps in diagnosing kidney disorders and monitoring proteinuria. Also employed in colorimetric methods to determine serum proteins like albumin. Additionally, it acts as an intermediate in the synthesis of other salicylate-based compounds and may be used in some pharmaceutical formulations for its anti-inflammatory or chelating properties.