This comprehensive review examines toxic compounds called α-pyrones that are produced by disease-causing fungi affecting crops and plants. These compounds act as natural poisons that help fungi damage plants, but interestingly, they also have potential medical uses including antibacterial, antifungal, and anti-cancer properties. Researchers have studied how the chemical structure of these compounds relates to their toxicity, which could help develop new herbicides for weed control and treatments for various diseases. The review covers dozens of these compounds and their applications in agriculture, medicine, and biotechnology.