Abstract: Objective: Optimal microwave extraction conditions of total triterpenoids from Volvariella volvacea mycelia by response surface methodology was studied. Methods: Based on single factor experiments,microwave power,treatment time,extracting temperature and liquid- to- material ratio as main variables that influence extraction efficiency were identified.With the value of the total triterpenoids yield in the mycelia,the extraction conditions was optimized by response surface analysis method. Results: The optimal microwave extraction conditions was determined as follows: microwave power 720 W,treatment time 21 min,extrcting temperature 66℃ and liquid- to-material ratio 36 m L / g. Under these conditions,the average extraction rate of total triterpenoids from Volvariella volvacea mycelia reached 1.65%. Conclusions: Compared with other extraction methods,the method of extracting total triterpenoids from Volvariella volvacea mycelia by microwave technique was efficient and stable.