To explore factors affecting the extraction rate of total phenols from Plantago asiatica L.,the optimal extraction conditions using microwave-assisted extraction were optimized by single factor and orthogonal experiment.The results showed that the order of different effect factors on yield was microwave-heating time > ethanol concentration > solid-liquid ratio > microwave power. The optimal conditions were as follows: 60% ethanol,1∶ 15( g∶ mL)ratio of solid-liquid,extracting 3 min,microwave power 450 W. The yield of total phenols was up to 3. 61% under these conditions. The method had the advantages of higher yield,less extraction time and energy.