Ischemic stroke is considered to be one of the major causes of death and disability worldwidely,and is correlated to a series of complex pathophysiological processes. However,the time window of thrombolysis and thrombectomy commonly used in clinic is relatively short,and the treatment still has limitations. Oleanolic acid is a triterpenoid compound that has antioxidative,anti-neuroinflammatory and other functions. It exists widely in various precious traditional Chinese medicines. Existing studies have proved that oleanolic acid can reduce excitotoxicity,Ca2+ overload,mitochondrial dysfunction and blood -brain barrier permeability,and can anti -inflammation,anti oxidation,anti-apoptosis and improve angiogenesis and neurogenesis. This manuscript reviews the role and mechanism of oleanolic acid in the treatment of ischemic stroke,providing a reference for its clinical application.