Objective: To optimize softening cutting processes of Morindae Officinalis Radix

in order to provide technical parameters for standard production of the pieces. Method: On the basis of single-factor test

with comprehensive score of rubiadin-1-methyl ether

monotropein and nystose as indexes

orthogonal design was adopted to detect effects of water volume

moistening time

moistening temperature and cutting length on softening and cutting processes.HPLC was used to determine the content of rubiadin-1-methyl ether

which was eluted with mobile phase of acetonitrile-0.2% aqueous phosphoric acid in gradient mode

detection wavelength was 277 nm.The content of monotropein was eluted with mobile phase of acetonitrile-0.1% aqueous phosphoric acid in gradient mode

detection wavelength was 235 nm.HPLC-CAD was used to determine the content of nystose with mobile phase of methanol-water (3 : 97). Result: Optimal softening and cutting processes were as follows:water volume of 1.0 times

moistening temperature at 50 ℃

moistening time of 9 h and cutting length of 10-15 mm.Average fractions of rubiadin-1-methyl ether

monotropein

nystose and water extract were 0.045%

5.074%

63.202% and 74.651%

respectively. Conclusion: These optimized softening and cutting processes for Morindae Officinalis Radix are rational and feasible

it can be used as technical parameters for standard production of the pieces.