Propham is an ester of carbamic acid (isopropyl carbanilate), and is physiologically quite active. The carbamates have a biological activity spectrum that is much more diverse than their structures. Some display insecticidal properties, while others are fungicidal, and some even display herbicidal properties. Propham was the first herbicidal carbamate to be synthesized, and the chemical exerts it's effect by stopping cell division and plant tissue growth.