Starch-based adhesives have emerged as a promising sustainable alternative for wood-based composites due to the necessity to substitute oil-derived adhesives and lessen environmental impact. The renewable, biodegradable, and abundant nature of starch provides a cost-effective and eco-friendly raw material for adhesive production. Recent progressions have concentrated on enhancing the water resistance and bonding strength of starch-based adhesives through various modifications and treatments. Nevertheless, challenges such as inadequate water resistance and weak adhesion in wet conditions are encountered. To tackle these issues, researchers have investigated chemical modifications like esterification, which notably enhance the water resistance of starch-based adhesives, rendering them suitable for applications in paper, plywood, and wood composites. The strategic alteration of starch through gelatinization, oxidation, and the integration of compatibilizers has additionally boosted the mechanical properties and processability of starch-based adhesives, making them comparable to synthetic materials. Additionally, the advancement of bio-based adhesives from avocado seed starch reinforced with clay particles has exhibited promising outcomes, with optimized shear strength and favorable interaction among the adhesive components. The increasing interest in bio-based wood adhesives is also mirrored in the industrial and research emphasis on developing non-toxic, low-emission wood composites with enhanced properties, capitalizing on the renewability and strong adhesion properties of starch. The transition towards starch-based adhesives signifies a sustainable, cost-effective, and eco-friendly approach to manufacturing high-performance wood-based composites.