Objective: To investigate the protective effects of genistein on neuronal function in cerebral hemorrhage rats and explore the underlying mechanisms. Methods: Rats were randomly divided into the following groups: a sham group, a model group, and cerebral hemorrhage rats treated with low, medium or high dose of genistein groups. Cerebral hemorrhage rat model was induced by injection of type IV collagenase. Neuronal functions were determined by Garcia method; the brain water content (BWC) was measured by wet weight method; SOD and catalase (CAT) levels in brain tissue were examined with colorimetric method; cell apoptosis was observed by TUNEL staining, and the expressions of p-PI3K and p-AKT were detected by Western blot. Results: Compared with the model group, neuronal function was significantly improved after genistein treatment. Moreover, the BWC and cell apoptosis in the brain were decreased, while the levels of SOD and CAT, and the expression of p-PI3K and p-AKT were increased after genistein treatment. Conclusion: Genistein can improve neuronal function in cerebral hemorrhage rats, which may be associated with its anti-oxidative effects and regulation of PI3K/Akt pathway.