Lupus erythematosus is a chronic autoimmune disease that seriously influences the health of the body. The prevalence of lupus erythematosus is rising, but the etiology still remains unclear. Currently, glucocorticoids and immunosuppressants are mainly used to ease the symptoms and reduce complications. But long-term application of these medicines causes many side-effects, such as infection, anemia, osteoporosis, high blood pressure and diabetes. Thanks to thousands of years' clinical practice, Chinese medicine has accumulated abundant experiences in the treatment of lupus erythematosus. Based on pattern differentiation, satisfactory results have been achieved. Clinical researchers have demonstrated that Chinese medicine can reduce the side effects of biomedicine, help the patient to gradually reduce daily dosage of corticosteroids, prevent the disease from aggravation, regulate the immunity functions, and improve the survival rates and life quality.