Autophagy is an important life activity of programmed cell regulation，which is widely involved in the occurrence and development of pulmonary fibrosis.By analyzing the pathophysiological mechanism of autophagy，the microscopic mechanism of “virulent” was discussed，and the pathogenesis of “virulent” in idiopathic pulmonary interstitial fibrosis and the clinical application of “strengthening and detoxification method” were revealed from the microscopic perspective.It is believed that autophagy is consistent with the mechanism of “transformation of vital qi” to ensure the normal life activities of the body when the vital qi is deficient，and “self-digestion” to maintain the homeostasis of the internal environment when endogenous dampness and heat are induced by phlegm and blood stasis.It is expounded that Chinese medicine can bidirectionally regulate autophagy in different stages of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis to maintain the dynamic balance of Yin and Yang，treat both the symptoms and root causes，delay the development of the disease，and provide new ideas and methods for the prevention and treatment of idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis.