Abstract: The extraction of functional components from Radix Astragalus by the flash extraction method was optimized using one-factor-at-a-time experiments followed by an L9(33) orthogonal array design based on the extraction yields of polysaccharides, flavonoids and saponins. The optimal extraction conditions were extraction at a solid-to-liquid ratio of 1:20 and 120 V voltage repeated 3 times for 1 min each time. Under these conditions, the extraction yields of polysaccharides, flavonoids and saponins were 3.728%, 0.135% and 1.019%, respectively. In conclusion, the optimized process is a time-saving, highly efficient, energy-saving new method to extract functional components from Radix Astragalus.

Key words: Radix Astragalus, polysaccharides, flavonoids, saponins, flash extraction