To analyze the chemical constituents and antitumor effects of the root of Actinidia chinensis

in order to provide scientific and theoretical basis for investigating its pharmacodynamic substances. The chemical constituents and antitumor effects were reviewed from related domestic and abroad published literatures in the past 30 years. The chemical constituents of the root of A. chinensis are complex. There are about 90 chemical constituents isolated and identified up to now

including 38 pentacyclic triterpenes

16 flavonoids

6 anthraquinones

5 steroids

5 alkaloids and 25 other type of compounds. It has significant antitumor activities on gastric cancer

esophageal cancer

colon cancer and lung cancer. Herein

we obtained some progress on its chemical constituents and pharmacological activities

especially its antitumor effects. However

limited research has focused on its aqueous extract. Further research is helpful for the development of new medicines and making the most use of plant resources.