Calophyllic acid is primarily used in the field of medicinal chemistry due to its structural similarity to vitamin K. It exhibits anticoagulant properties and has been studied for its potential in managing blood clotting disorders. The compound serves as a lead molecule in the development of novel anticoagulant drugs, especially in cases where conventional therapies may lead to resistance or adverse effects.

It also shows antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory activities, making it valuable in research focused on natural product-based therapeutics. Due to its lipophilic nature, calophyllic acid can penetrate cell membranes effectively, enhancing its bioavailability in preclinical studies.

Additionally, it is used as a chemical marker in the standardization of extracts from Calophyllum species, which are widely used in traditional medicine. Its unique structure also makes it useful in synthetic organic chemistry for constructing complex heterocyclic systems through derivatization.