Phthalides provide health benefits by stimulating and/or inhibiting various enzymes in the body. Studies have shown that these compounds can help.

• Lower blood pressure
• Provide an anti-inflammatory function
• Improve circulation
• Rid the body of toxins such as uric acid crystals
• Inhibit malignancy
• Offer a calming effect

The Phthalides group contains several closely related compounds such as butylphthalide, sedanolide, ligustilide, and sedanenolide. They are a group of secondary metabolites or phytochemical compounds classified under lactones.These compounds are found in celery, Dong Quai and lovage among other plants.