Abstract: OBJECTIVE To optimize the optimum ultrasonic extraction technology of Arnebiae Radix by using sesame oil microemulsion. METHODS UV-Vis method was used to determine the content of naphthoquinones and HPLC was adopted to determine the content of shikonin. So that the contents of active ingredients from Arnebiae Radix by using sesame oil microemulsion could be investigated. Single-factor test was carried out to the effect of different volume, the extraction time and material liquid ratio on the extraction of sesame oil. Then optimum aqueous extraction technology of Arnebiae Radix was optimized by orthogonal design on the basis of single-factor test, then, verification. RESULTS The optimum extraction process was as follows:microemulsion consisting of sesame oil:water:polysorbate-80:glycerol=1.7:68.0:10.2:5.1; solid-liquid ratio was 25(15+10) times; ultrasonic extraction twice, the first extraction time was 70 min, the second time was 40 min. The extraction rate of Naphthoquinones and Shikonin were 74.77% and 93.17%. CONCLUSION Sesame oil microemulsion can be used to extract active ingredients of Arnebiae Radix.