Phytic acid sodium salt (Sodium phytate hydrate) is known to function as a [PO4]3- storage depot and a precursor for other inositol phosphates and pyrophosphates. It is a potent chelator of divalent and trivalent cations in vitro.

Phytic acid dipotassium salt is an endogenous metabolite that inhibits β-secretase 1 (BACE1).

Phytic acid dodecasodium salt hydrate (myo-Inositol, hexakis(dihydrogen phosphate) dodecasodium salt hydrate) is a phosphorus storage compound of seeds and cereal grains. Phytic acid dodecasodium salt hydrate inhibits the enzymatic superoxide source xanthine oxidase with an IC50 of 6 mM and has antioxidative, neuroprotective, and anti-inflammatory effects.

Phytic acid (Fytic Acid) is a complexing agent for removal of traces of heavy metal ions. It acts also as a hypocalcemic agent.