Objective: To optimize extraction and purification technology of total saponins in Sanguisorbae Radix by orthogonal test and three-step precipitation method. Method: HPLC-ELSD method was employed to determine the content of ziyuglycoside-Ⅰ with mobile phase of [methanol-acetonitrile(1:1)]-water for gradient elution.Taking transfer rate of ziyuglycoside-Ⅰ as index

orthogonal test was adopted to optimize extraction technology of total saponins.Three-step alkali precipitation method was used

single factor tests were adopted to optimize purification technology of total saponins with clearance of tannins and ziyuglycoside-Ⅰ content as indexes. Result: The best process was as follows:reflux extracted twice with 8 times the amount of 70% ethanol

each time for 1.5 h

adding 10%NaOH to adjust pH of extract between 12-14

stewing it for 12 hours

collecting supernatant solution after centrifugation

adding 10%NaOH to adjust pH of supernatant solution between 12-13

stewing it for 24 hours

collecting the precipitate after centrifugation

dried the precipitate at 70℃

then reflux extracted 30 min with 30 times the amount of ethanol

vacuum recovery of ethanol

dried 12 h.Purity of total saponins in Sanguisorbae Radix was 91.32%. Conclusion: The optimized extraction and purification technology of total saponins in Sanguisorbae Radix is simple and stable with high yield and purity

which is suitable for industrial production.