Objective: To review the research progression of Chinese medicines for anti-human immunodeifciency virus (HIV) and their natural active ingredients at home and abroad so as to provide references for pharmaceutical research and clinical medication. Methods:Abundant representative literatures at home and abroad were classiifed to introduce the anti-HIV monomers, compounds and natural active ingredients of Chinese medicines. Results:The researches on anti-HIV natural medicines have obtained great achievements, in which medicines with anti-virus and immunity-improving functions have had rapid progression and new-types for anti-virus also have had dramatic development. Conclusion:The progression of anti-HIV Chinese medicines and their active ingredients has favorable prospect.