To explore the medicinal properties of [Hoodia gordonii(Masson) Sweet ex Decne] based on research literature on the exotic medicinal plant H.gordonii in combination with traditional Chinese medicine(TCM) theory and establish theoretical foundations for its introduction into Chinese medicine.Methods:The National Knowledge Infrastructure(CNKI),China Science Periodical Database(CSPD),Chinese Citation Database(CCD),Web of Science,PubMed,and Scopus databases were searched for scientific research literature on H.gordonii with high credibility and reliable conclusions.A total of 132 relevant articles were included and categorized into six types：review studies,historical applications,chemical constituents,clinical studies,pharmacological effects,and safety literature.TCM theory was applied to explore the medicinal properties of H.gordonii.Results:By summarizing,synthesizing,and theoretically analyzing the medicinal properties of H.gordonii in Chinese medicine,H.gordonii is bitter and slightly cold,and acts on the spleen,stomach,and liver meridians,with effects of clearing heat,reducing fire,resolving turbidity,lowering lipid levels,soothing the liver,and relieving depression.It is primarily indicated for excessive stomach fire,polyphagia with easy hunger,obesity,internal heat with thirst,liver qi stagnation,and chest and rib distention.Conclusion:Establishing the medicinal properties of H.gordonii in Chinese medicine is significant for introducing African plant resources into Chinese medicine,enhancing species diversity,and promoting the sustainable development of TCM.