OBJECTIVE To optimize the extraction process of total saponins from Aralia chinensis L.METHODS The extraction process of Aralia chinensis L.saponin was optimized by one-way and response surface design using solvent concentration,extraction time,liquid/feed ratio and extraction temperature as the influencing factors.RESULTS The results showed that the optimal extraction process of Aralia chinensis L.saponin was based on the ethanol concentration of 70%,extraction time of 80min,liquid/feed ratio of 20.4(mL∶g),and extraction temperature of 74℃,and the content of aralia total saponin was 9.74%.CONCLUSION The process is stable,reliable,simple and feasible,and provides scientific basis for further comprehensive development and utilization of Aralia chinensis L.herbs.