<p>Schiff base-based self-healing materials have garnered significant attention in recent years due to their dynamic imine linkages, which enable repeated healing of material networks under mild conditions. This review provides a comprehensive overview of Schiff base-based self-healing systems, highlighting their dynamic covalent chemistry, design strategies, healing mechanism and functional properties. The structural tunability of Schiff base linkages and their incorporation in to various systems such as polymer networks, composites, and hydrogels, are thoroughly examined. The potential applications of these materials across various sectors including automotive, electronics, biomedical and protective coatings, are critically analyzed with a focus on performance, adaptability, and industrial relevance. Additionally, the challenges associated with mechanical strength, healing efficiency and environmental factors, along with future perspectives for advancing this field, are also discussed. Overall, this review aims to provide a valuable insight into the current state and future direction of Schiff base-based self-healing materials, highlighting their transformative potential in the development of next-generation sustainable and smart materials.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>