The invention discloses an air sterilization device and sterilization method. The air sterilization device comprises a machine housing, a centrifugal fan, a filter rolling shaft and a water tank, wherein the centrifugal fan, the filter rolling shaft and the water tank are all arranged in the machine housing, the water tank is located at the bottom of the machine housing, the filter rolling shaft is installed above the water tank, the centrifugal fan is installed at the upper portion of the machine housing, the top face of the machine housing is provided with an air inlet, a filter screen is arranged between the air inlet and the centrifugal fan, the side face of the upper portion of the machine housing is provided with an air outlet and a water inlet, the lower portion of the machine housing is provided with a transparent water level observing window, and the bottom is provided with a water outlet; an air sterilization agent is contained in the water tank, and the filter rolling shaftis provided with a plurality of grooves. The air sterilization device achieves air sterilization, plays an air purifying effect, can also eliminate peculiar smell in air, increases indoor humidity, reduces influenza occurrence rate, is quick and convenient to operate, good in sterilization effect, simple in use and convenient to popularize and use.