Abstract: Phloretin is a flavonoid compound found in various fruits and vegetables, with rich pharmacological activities. Phloretin can regulate various signaling pathways and molecular mechanisms, and has therapeutic effects on various diseases including cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. In addition, phloretin also has protective effects on liver, bone, and skin tissues. Phloretin is mainly absorbed in the small intestine after oral administration and can be rapidly distributed to organs other than the brain. After being metabolized by the liver, it is excreted from the body through urine. However, the poor water solubility and low bioavailability of phloretin limit it’s clinical application. Modification of chemical structure and the application of new drug delivery systems will solve the problem of clinical translation of phloretin. This article will provide a comprehensive review of the pharmacokinetic characteristics, pharmacological action, and drug development of phloretin, with the hope of providing reference for subsequent research and development.