OBJECTIVE To sort out and analyze the relationship between the nature and flavour and chemical composition, composition and preparation method, in order to provide useful reference for the clinical application and further research of Epimedii Folium.

METHODS Guided by the theory of traditional Chinese medicine, by combing the records of Epimedii Folium in the works of materia medica, combined with the active ingredients, the compatibility and processing methods of Epimedii Folium, the development law of its medicinal properties and effects were summarized and discussed, and the reasons for its changes were explained and clarified one by one.

RESULTS Epimedii Folium has a long history of medicinal use and is a common clinical Chinese medicinal material. Its chemical components are mostly flavonoids, and it is often used with warm and tonic Chinese medicine. The processing method is mostly mixed with sheep fat oil, and the medicinal use is mostly grilled Epimedii Folium. From the Shennong Materia Medica in the Eastern Han Dynasty to the current Chinese pharmacopoeia, the drug properties of Epimedii Folium were recorded from "spicy and cold" to "spicy, sweet and warm". It was speculated that the reason for the difference in the drug properties of Epimedii Folium might be related to the processing process. The ancient and modern understanding of the effect of Epimedii Folium is more unified, with the effect of tonifying the kidney and strengthening the Yang, strengthening the tendon and bones, dispelling wind and eliminating dampness.

CONCLUSION The research has clarified the development and evolution of the drug properties of Epimedii Folium, combined with modern pharmacological research results and the modernization of Chinese medicine, and further explored the drug efficacy of Epimedii Folium, which provides reference for exploring its potential in clinical application.