Abstract: OBJECTIVE To optimize the extraction conditions of the total saponin from Dioscoreae Nipponicae Rhizoma. METHODS Ultrasonic assisted cellulose enzymatic extraction was used to extract the total saponin from Dioscoreae Nipponicae Rhizoma. With the basis of the single factor experimental results, the main factors which influence the content of total saponin by using response surface methodology(RSM) were analyzed and optimized. The mathematical model was founded between the influence factors and the response values, and then got the optimum extracting conditions. RESULTS The optimal conditions of total saponin extraction were obtained as the follows:pH value 6.0, bathing temperature 31.3℃, ethanol concentration 44.21%. Under the above condition, the total saponin yield was up to 0.421%. CONCLUSION The optimized process is easy to operate with high efficiency, suitable for industrial production.