Sterilization operation, as a key operation unit affecting the quality of traditional Chinese medicine and its preparations, directly affects the safety, effectiveness and quality stability of medicines. Sterilization operation should not only remove or kill microorganisms, but also ensure the quality stability, therapeutic effect and medication safety of the drug. Therefore, effective sterilization methods must be selected in combination with the nature and dosage form of the drug and reasonable use of sterilization technology. The steam has the advantages of reliable sterilization effect, simple equipment and low cost due to its high specific heat and strong penetration.