Activation of TNF-α is critically governed by the transcription factor nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB) [32–34]. Salviae miltiorrhizae has been proved to possess significant protective effects on apoptosis and NF-κB protein expression of the intestinal mucosa in rats with severe acute pancreatitis or obstructive jaundice [35, 36]. Here, TNF is linked to obstructive jaundice.