Hippuric acid is primarily used in clinical and environmental studies as a biomarker. In clinical settings, it serves as an indicator of exposure to toluene, a common solvent. Elevated levels of hippuric acid in urine can suggest toluene exposure, making it valuable for occupational health monitoring. Additionally, it is used in research to assess kidney function, as it is excreted by the kidneys. In environmental science, hippuric acid helps in studying the biodegradation of certain organic compounds, providing insights into pollution and ecosystem health. Its role in these fields underscores its importance in both medical diagnostics and environmental monitoring.