<p>Mining activities are often associated with significant environmental degradation, particularly due to the accumulation of mine tailings (MTs). These waste materials are frequently stored in dams or open ponds without adequate treatment, posing serious risk of heavy metals (HMs) contamination to surrounding ecosystems. Given these challenges, restoration of MTs to mitigate their negative impacts has become highly important. This study attempts to compile different types of MTs, their characteristics, and associated issues such as acid mine drainage (AMD) and HMs contamination, along with other environmental impacts. It also explores the fundamentals of phytoremediation, highlighting key processes, recent advancements, benefits, limitations, and strategies for post-harvest management. The findings indicate that MTs are a major source of HM pollution and contribute significantly to environmental deterioration. Phytoremediation has emerged as a promising, cost-effective, and eco-friendly solution for MT restoration. In addition to mitigating contamination, phytoremediation enhances soil quality, prevents erosion, reduces HM leaching into groundwater, and improves the visual appeal of degraded sites. Research suggests that revegetating MT-contaminated soils with specific plant species can effectively remediate these areas, reducing HM leaching risks while improving soil properties. This review serves as a valuable resource for researchers working on MT restoration, offering insights into the latest advancements in phytoremediation technology and its potential to address the environmental challenges posed by MTs.</p>