OBJECTIVE: To observe the effects of Cili juice enriched with SOD (CLJES) on lead excretion, activity of superoxide dismutase (SOD) in erythrocytes, plasma lipid peroxidation (LPO) and immune function in experimental lead poisoning animals. METHODS: Lead poisoning models were made in rats and mice. The effects of CLJES on lead excretion, SOD activity, LPO concentration in rats and immune functions in mice were determined and compared with those of conventional EDTA treatment. RESULTS: CLJES significantly increased lead excretion. Furthermore it significantly increased SOD activity, reduced LPO concentration in rats with lead poisoning and enhanced immune function in lead loaded mice, however EDTA had no such actions. CONCLUSION: CLJES might exert a wider range of therapeutic effects on lead poisoning than EDTA.