Vascular calcification refers to the process of calcium salt deposition in the blood vessel wall, leading to vascular stiffening and loss of elasticity. It commonly occurs in middle-aged and elderly individuals, especially those with chronic conditions such as atherosclerosis, hypertension, diabetes, and chronic kidney disease. Vascular calcification is an active process, and one of the key events is the transdifferentiation of smooth muscle cells into osteoblast-like cells. These cells release calcium ions during the calcification process, leading to calcium salt deposition and the formation of calcified plaques. Vascular calcification is regulated by various factors, including high levels of phosphate and calcium, oxidative stress, and mechanical stress. Traditional Chinese medicine research has shown potential in attenuating vascular calcification, with substances such as Ganoderma lucidum spore powder and its derivatives, Panax notoginseng, baicalin, geniposide, and triptolide. These studies provide important evidence for further understanding and intervention in vascular calcification and reveal potential inhibitory factors that could be explored for future treatments.