Butein is a chalcone that is (E)-chalcone bearing four additional hydroxy substituents at positions 2', 3, 4 and 4'. It has a role as a tyrosine kinase inhibitor, an antioxidant, an EC 1.1.1.21 (aldehyde reductase) inhibitor, an antineoplastic agent, a geroprotector, a radiosensitizing agent, a hypoglycemic agent and a plant metabolite. It is a member of chalcones and a polyphenol.