It has been reported that Gastrodia elata Bl. contains gastrodin,G. elata polysaccharide,gastrodigenin,parishin B and other active ingredients,which have many pharmacological effects such as protecting blood vessels,protecting neurons,antioxidation,sedation and analgesia.The methods of active components extraction of G. elata mainly include alcohol precipitation,heat reflux extraction,enzyme hydrolysis and microwave-assisted extraction.G. elata has important research values and practical significance in the fields of medicine,food and skin care product for its broad biological characteristics.The research situation of active components extraction,pharmacological effects and product development of G. elata in recent years was reviewed in order to provide scientific basis for the further study and development.