Abstract: Objective Provide literature basis and idea for the research of relevance between efficacy, material basis and toxicity. Methods Ancient books ,literature in past dynasties and references in the last decades at home about Fructus Bruceae were collected, analyzed and summarized. Results The efficacy of Fructus Bruceae that was recorded in ancient books and modern references are similar, but it isn't that about toxicity. Many adverse reaction were observed in clinical application. Quassinoide Compounds are the material basis of its toxicity. Conclusion The research about efficacy,material basis and toxicity of Fructus Bruceae is isolated, there is a short of relevance.The toxicity of Fructus Bruceae should be researched in the process of efficacy-expression and material basis-separation. Material basis of toxicity should be controled reasonably and basement would be provided for safe medication in clinical.

Key words: Fructus Bruceae, efficacy, material basis, toxicity