This paper reviews the research status of chemical constituents,pharmacological activities and toxic side effects of Rhizoma Corydalis. At present,more than 40 kinds of alkaloids as well as a large number of non-alkaloid substances have been separated and identified from Rhizoma Corydalis. Except the analgesic,sedative and antithrombotic effects,it also shows the pharmacological activities such as anti-tumor,anti-diabetes and diabetic complications,improving the body resistance to stress. With the widespread application of Rhizoma Corydalis,there are a few studies on its toxic side effects.