Extraction methods and instrumental analytical conditions were compared to establish a fast and appropriate analytical method to determine saikosaponins in Bupleurum falcatum. Using HPLC, analysis of diene-saikosaponin treated with 2% acid was faster than that of saikosaponin itself. Among various extraction methods, extraction by standing in methanol at room temperature showed highest efficieny, and extraction with boiling methanol was shorter in analytical time and showed good chromatogram. And we could analyze many samples faster using HPTLC but the analytical accuracy was low. In extraction and analysis of saikosaponins, extraction with boiling methanol and acidic treatment was fast and easy analytical method. And for selecting useful lines in component breeding, we think TLC method was better.