Phenolic acids are a class of plant-derived compounds with significant antioxidant and therapeutic properties. They are found in various plant-based foods and play a crucial role in human health due to their ability to combat oxidative stress, inflammation, and various diseases. This review discusses the biosynthesis, metabolism, bioavailability, and applications of phenolic acids in biomedical, pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Phenolic acids are divided into two main subgroups: hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids. They are synthesized through the phenylpropanoid pathway and are metabolized by intestinal, hepatic, and microbial systems. Their bioavailability varies depending on the type and structure of the compound, with some being more readily absorbed than others. Phenolic acids exhibit diverse biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties. They are used as signaling molecules in plant-microbe interactions and as natural preservatives in food. Phenolic acids are also valuable in drug discovery and have potential applications in therapeutic and cosmetic industries. The review highlights the importance of phenolic acids in human health and their potential for further research and development in various fields.Phenolic acids are a class of plant-derived compounds with significant antioxidant and therapeutic properties. They are found in various plant-based foods and play a crucial role in human health due to their ability to combat oxidative stress, inflammation, and various diseases. This review discusses the biosynthesis, metabolism, bioavailability, and applications of phenolic acids in biomedical, pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetic industries. Phenolic acids are divided into two main subgroups: hydroxybenzoic and hydroxycinnamic acids. They are synthesized through the phenylpropanoid pathway and are metabolized by intestinal, hepatic, and microbial systems. Their bioavailability varies depending on the type and structure of the compound, with some being more readily absorbed than others. Phenolic acids exhibit diverse biological activities, including antioxidant, antimicrobial, antidiabetic, and anticancer properties. They are used as signaling molecules in plant-microbe interactions and as natural preservatives in food. Phenolic acids are also valuable in drug discovery and have potential applications in therapeutic and cosmetic industries. The review highlights the importance of phenolic acids in human health and their potential for further research and development in various fields.