Phenyl salicylate belongs to the family of hydroxybenzoic acid derivatives. Phenyl salicylate is used as a food additive. Antimycobacterial activity of phenyl salicylates (salols) was studied in connection with antituberculotic activity of salicylic derivatives. Phenyl salicylates are esters. Phenyl salicylates (salols) represent a new group of antimycobacterial compounds. Phenyl salicylate is included in the number of medications, indicated for the treatment of symptoms of irritative voiding, used to relieve the discomfort, pain, frequent urge to urinate, and cramps/spasms of the urinary tract caused by an infection or a medical procedure. Phenyl salicylate works as a pain reliever in these combinations.

3-Phenyl-1-propanol is a fragrance ingredient used in many compounds. It may be found in fragrances used in decorative cosmetics, fine fragrances, shampoos, toilet soaps and other toiletries as well as in non-cosmetic products such as household cleaners and detergents. It is a colorless slightly oily liquid, possessing a warm and mild, balsamic-floral, sweet odor of moderate tenacity. This material has been reported to occur in nature, with highest quantities observed in Guava and Feyoa. The worldwide volume of use for 3-phenyl-1-propanol is in the region of 100–1000 metric tons per year. 3-Phenyl-1-propanol was used to study the hydrogenation of trans-cinnamaldehyde using water-soluble organometallic complexes. It was used as starting reagent during the enantioselective synthesis of (S)- and (R)-dapoxetine.

Phenylpropanol is used as a heat transfer medium, in perfumery, and as a choleretic; used as a flavoring agent. It is used clinically as choleretic drug.