Abstract: OBJECTIVE To optimize the extraction conditions of Bitongxiao Cataplasm. METHODS Orthogonal design L₉ (3⁴) was used for the optimization of extraction conditions of essential oil guided by yield of essential oil. The orthogonal design L₉ (3⁴) was carried out for the optimum water extraction conditions guided by yields of salvianolic acid B and ferulic acid. The orthogonal design L₉ (3⁴) was carried out for the optimum ethanol extraction conditions guided by yield of dry extract. RESULTS The optimum extraction conditions of essential oil were determined with using 10 times of water and decocting 3 h. The optimum water extraction conditions were determined with using 15 times of water, decocting 2 times and 3 h each time. The optimum ethanol extraction conditions were determined with decocting 3 times, 20 times of 65% ethanol and 2.5 h each time. CONCLUSION The optimum extractions were reasonable and practical.