: is the dried root of Willd. or L., which has the effect of improving memory and cognitive function in traditional Chinese medicine. Modern pharmacological studies indicated that has rich pharmacological activities and , including protective effects on the nervous system, immune system, cardiovascular system and respiratory system, as well as antioxidant and antiepileptic pharmacological activities. Up to now, more than 160 metabolites from were identified, including triterpenoid saponins, xanthones, oligosaccharide esters and et al. The clinical practice of traditional Chinese medicine has proved that has a certain irritation to the throat, and a large or long-term use will stimulate the digestive tract, and the main toxic metabolite is saponins. Therefore, should be pr ocessed or used in combination with other Chinese herbal medicines to reduce the irritation to the throat and reduce gastrointestinal irritation. This article provides a review of the metabolites, pharmacological activity, and toxicology of . It also discusses the future research prospects and existing problems of , providing reference for further research on .