Abstract: Extraction process of total alkaloids from maca (Lepidium meyenii walp.) cultivated in Yunnan was investigated. With hot water as extraction solvent, the effect of extraction temperature, extraction time and solid -liquid ratio on the yield of total alkaloids were optimized and the best extraction conditions were determined with single factor test followed by three factor-three level orthogonal experiment. The results showed that the effect of the investigated factors on the total alkaloids extraction yield was in the order as:extraction time>solid-liquid ratio>extraction temperature. The optimal extraction conditions were that solid-liquid ratio of 1:20 (g:mL) , extraction temperature of 70℃ and extraction time of 100min. Under these conditions the total alkaloids extraction yield was 1. 58%.