Objective: To optimize surfactant assisted microwave extraction process of total flavonoids from Fagopyri Dibotryis Rhizoma. Method: Taking microwave power

the concentration of sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS)

solid to liquid ratio and microwave extraction time as independent variables

extraction amount of total flavonoids as dependent variable

linear or nonlinear mathematic models were used to estimate relationship between independent variables and dependent variable

central composite design-response surface methodology were adopted to optimize extraction process

and prediction was carried out through comparing the observed and predicted values. Result: Optimum extraction conditions were as follows:microwave power 175 W

the concentration of SDS 1.28%

solid-liquid ratio of 1:21 g·mL-1

microwave extraction time of 3.6 min;Under these conditions

yield of total flavonoids could reach 1.06 mg·g-1.Compared with thermal reflux method

microwave method and ultrasonic method

extraction amount of total flavonoids with surfactant assisted microwave extraction process could increased 35%

14% and 21%

respectively. Conclusion: Optimized process was simple and feasible

it had advantages of energy-saving

time-saving and high extracting rate

which could be used for extraction of total flavonoids from Fagopyri Dibotryis Rhizoma.