To provide reference for the anti-inflammatory mechanism research of Radix Arnebiae and its preparations.Methods:Key words of “Radix Arnebiae”“shikonin”“preparation”“anti-inflammatory”“research progress” were used to search the relevant literature from the date of establishment of the database to December 31,2017 in PubMed and CNKI,and reviewed the research on anti-inflammatory action of Radix Arnebiae,shikonin and compound Radix Arnebiae preparations.Results: and Conclusion:128 related literatures were retrieved,41 of which were valid.Arnebia euchroma had the best efficacy,and Onosma paniculatum and Radix Arnebiae from Mount Tai were also gradually affirmed.The alcohol extract of Radix Arnebiae had optimal anti-inflammatory effect,and there were good anti-inflammatory activity of shikonin and shikonin derivatives.Experiment research of using Radix Arnebiae,shikonin and compound Radix Arnebiae preparations to treat burns,eczema,psoriasis,allergic purpura,arthritis,phlebitis,gynecological inflammation,acute lung injury,severe acute pancreatitis accompanied by lung injury or liver injury,local cerebral ischemia and other diseases were gradually thorough.Their anti-inflammatory mechanisms are closely related to NF-B,IL-1,IL-6,TNF-α,NO,CCR,cox-2,IL-22,and IL-17.Now Radix Arnebiae and compound Radix Arnebiae preparations,which dosage forms are mostly oil,ointments,suppositories and sprays,have been widely used in the clinical treatment of eczema,dermatitis,gynecological inflammation,skin wound and mucosal injury.How to develop the anti-inflammatory action of Radix Arnebiae and compound Radix Arnebiae preparations is remains to be further studied at the micro level by using bionomics technique.