To explore the antioxidant activity, moisture - absorbing and moisture - retention properties of polysaccharides from Tremella, oat and Ophiopogon Japonicus. Methods-.The antioxidant activities of 3 polysaccharides were evaluated by determining their scavenging activities on 2,2 - diphenyl -1 - picrylhydrazyl (DPPH)and their reducing and chelating powers. The moisture retention activities were also evaluated by controlling the relative humidity and compared with glycerol. Results:Polysaccharides from Ophiopogon Japonicus exhibited the strongest moisture - absorbing and moisture - retention rates and reducing power. Meanwhile, polysaccharides from Tremella also exhibited stronger scavenging activity on DPPH free radicals. Conclusion:Polysaccharides from Tremella,oat and Ophiopogon Japonicus can be used as a good additive in functional food and cosmetics.