Resveratrol (RSV), as one of the most abundant non-flavonoid polyphenolic compounds, is widely found in natural plants. Its biological properties include antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antiviral, and regulating cell metabolism. RSV has been widely used in human health care and animal production. To provide a reference for further research and development application, the source, physicochemical characters, bioavailability, biological properties of RSV and its mechanism of action were brief summarized in this paper.