Because the outer Rim is hydrophilic and the Cavity hydrophobic, cyclodextrin can provide a hydrophobic binding site like an enzyme, acting as a Host that encloses a variety of suitable Guest, such as organic molecules, inorganic ions, and gas molecules. Cyclodextrins have received great attention and been widely used in the fields of catalysis, separation, food and medicine.

In addition to the characteristics and uses of other CDS, because the inner cavity size of α-CD is smaller than that of β-CD, it is more suitable for the inclusion of small molecules, and applications requiring high CD solubility.