Used as a humectant in cosmetics and personal care products to retain moisture in skin and hair. Commonly found in lotions, creams, soaps, and toothpaste for its moisturizing properties. Serves as a solvent and filler in pharmaceutical formulations, including cough syrups and suppositories. Acts as a plasticizer in the production of polymers and resins. Utilized in food industry as a sweetener, solvent, and preservative. Employed in cryopreservation to protect cells and tissues at low temperatures. Also used in the manufacture of nitroglycerin, a key component in explosives and cardiovascular medications.