Abstract: OBJECTIVE To optimize the best matrix formulation and determine transdermal enhancer of Plumbago zeylanica cataplasm. METHODS The optimal preparation was selected by uniform design, independent variables were the amount of the matrix formulation component part in Plumbago zeylanica cataplasm, and the comprehensive score of appearance, viscosity and continued viscosity used as indexes were dependent variable. Transdermal absorption experiment in vitro were carried out by Franz diffusion pool method to optimize the types and dosages of transdermal enhancers. RESULTS The best matrix formulation in Plumbago zeylanica cataplasm was 2.0 g Plumbagin zeylanica extract, 0.938 g sodium polyacrylate, 0.137 g dihydroxy aluminum, 8.6 g glycerin, 0.04 g tartaric, 6.0 g water, 0.5 g kaolinite. The cataplasm transdermal absorption was enhanced by 5% peppermint oil. CONCLUSION The optimized cataplasm has good viscosity, homogeneity, coating and adhesive ability. The preparation technology is stable and feasible.