Objective:To optimize refining process of total saponins from extracts of Astragalus membranaceus. Method: With total saponins from A. membranaceus as index

the content of it was determined by UV spectrophotometry

adsorption capacity

kind and its amount of elution solvent were investigated by single factor test; Sample quantity

adsorption time and elution flow velocity were chosen as factors

elution conditions were optimized by orthogonal test. Result: optimized refining process was:mixed with 5 mL sample solution and 10 mL water

on column

adsorption time 1.0 h

eluted with 10 times the amount of water and 5 times the amount of 70% ethanol

collected eluent

elution flow velocity 2 mL·min-1.Eluent was decompressed recovery to dried

purity of total saponins was up to 87.63% after drying at 105 ℃. Conclusion: This optimized technology was simple and feasible

it could be better to purify total saponins from A. membranaceus.