Polydatin is a monocrystalline compound isolated from Polygonum cuspidatum Sieb. et Zucc. (Polygonaceae). Modern pharmacological studies have indicated that polydatin has a variety of pharmacological activities, such as anti-thrombosis, anti-arteriosclerosis, improvement of myocardial damage, anti-shock and regulation of glucose and lipid metabolism. In recent years, studies have reported that polydatin also has anti-liver cancer and anti-liver fibrosis effects and protects hepatocytes and improves hepatocyte steatosis. This article reviews the pharmacological effects and mechanisms of polydatin in liver disease to provide a reference for its follow-up research, development and use.