Abstract:In this study, the response surface methodology (RSM) was used to optimize the main factors of microwave-assisted extraction for paeoniflorin and paeonol from peony seed pods, including liquid-solid ratio, microwave power and time. The optimum extraction conditions were as follows: liquid-solid ratio was 10∶1, microwave power was 253 W, microwave time was 10 min. Under these condition, the yields of paeoniflorin and paeonol were 2.92 and 0.91 mg·g-1, respectively. Compared with the traditional extraction method, microwaveassisted extraction method could reduce extraction time, save raw material usage and enhance extraction rate, which was an efficient extraction method.