It is classified as a lignan, i.e., a type of phenylpropanoid.

It is present in some cereals, such as rye, and together with secoisolariciresinol has attracted much attention for its beneficial nutritional effects.[which?

[3] A number of plant lignans are metabolized to the enterolignans (enterodiol and enterolactone) that can potentially reduce the risk of certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.

[4] Although some studies attribute disease preventative (cardio-protective and hormone associated cancers like breast cancer) benefits of lignans, the results are inconclusive.

[5] Matairesinol has been found to act as an agonist of the adiponectin receptor 1 (AdipoR1).