Gastrodin(4-hydroxymethylphenyl-β-d-glucopyranoside)is an active ingredient with high content,which is isolated from the rhizome of Gastrodia elata.Gastrodin injections,tablets and capsules are currently the main gastrodin-related preparations in clinical practice,and gastrodin injections are the most widely used.This article will summarize pharmacology and adverse reactions of gastrodin to evaluate its safety,effectiveness and quality control.Gastrodin has pharmacological effects on central nervous system(vertigo,headache,insomnia,neurasthenia,convulsions and epilepsy,etc.),cardiovascular system and other diseases(osteoporosis,osteoarthritis and bone injury,etc.),but we still need to pay attention to its clinical adverse reactions(some patients may have dry mouth and nose,dizziness and stomach discomfort).In addition,further research is needed in other fields,such as health products,food,cosmetics,etc.We also need to further develop and explore the new pharmacological effects of gastrodin and expand its medicinal value.