Objective To investigate the anti-atherosclerotic and hypolipidemic effects of Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu Capsules in rats grouped by orthogonal design to receive different components of the prescription

and to clarify the main components and mechanisms of its anti-atherosclerotic action. Methods The atherosclerotic rat model was established by mixed methods. Rats were divided into groups for intragastric administration. Blood lipid indicators were measured

the morphological changes of the thoracic aorta were observed

and intima thickness was measured. Results Compared with the model group

the drug intervention groups（except groups 6 and 7）had reduced serum TC

TG

and LDL-C

increased HDL-C

inhibited intimal thickening of the thoracic aorta

and protected thoracic aorta morphology. The best results were achieved in the complete prescription group and atorvastatin group（P < 0.05）

and there was no significant difference in treatment outcome between the two groups（P > 0.05）.ConclusionThe components of Zhilong Huoxue Tongyu Capsule can regulate lipid metabolism and protect the morphology of rat thoracic aorta to different degrees

which may be responsible for the anti-atherosclerotic effect.