OBJECTIVE To review the research on the anti-tumor effect of Dendrobium officinale at home and abroad in recent years.METHODS Literatures about the anti-tumor effect of Dendrobium officinale in recent years were searched.The anti-tumor ingredients,pharmacological actions and clinical application of Dendrobium officinale were analyzed and summarize briefly.RESULTSThe polysaccharide and stilbenes inDendrobium officinaleshowed anti-tumor effect.CONCLUSION Dendrobium candidum may be applied to treat tumor clinically and be a candidate of the research and development of anti-tumor drugs.