Yohimbinic acid monohydrate is primarily used in research settings due to its biological activity related to adrenergic receptor modulation. It has been studied for its potential to influence neurotransmitter systems involved in arousal and autonomic function. Its structural similarity to yohimbine allows it to serve as a reference compound in pharmacological studies exploring alpha-2 adrenergic antagonism. It is also used in analytical methods to assess purity and metabolic pathways of related indole alkaloids. Due to its specificity, it aids in understanding receptor binding and signal transduction mechanisms in neurochemical research.