Aim To explore the effects of Xuezhi Kang on cholesterol and functions of endothelial cells in cholesterolfed rabbits. Methods The effects of Xuezhi Kang [0.8 g/(kg·d)] on the functions of endothelial cell during the progression of atherosclerosis were investigated in rabbits fed with 1.5% cholesterol diet in this study. 30 New Zealand white rabbits were divided into three groups (control group, hypercholesterol group and Xuezhi Kang group) during the 12 weeks experiment. Serum lipids, nitrous oxide (NO) and plasma endothelin-1 (ET-1), thromboxane (TX),6-keto-prostaglandin-F 1α (6-keto-PGF 1α) concentrations and histopathological changes of endothelial cells were followed. Results Serum total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol, triglyceride, plasma ET-1 concentrations and the ratio of TX/6-keto-PGF 1α in plasma decreased and serum NO level increased in Xuezhi Kang group as compared with those of hypercholesterol group (p<0.05). The area of lipid deposition on the intimal surface of the aorta and coronary arteries was reduced and the ultrastructural injuries of endothelial cells were milder in Xuezhi Kang group. Conclusion Xuezhi Kang had antiatherogenic properties and the protection to the functions of vascular endothelial cells which might be involved in the mechanisms of Xuezhi Kang against atherosclerosis.