Objective To apply atomic absorption spectrometry (AAS) for studying the differences in metal element dissolution (Cr, Cd, Pb and Cu) from Angelica dahurica following different extraction procedures. Methods The above four elements were extracted by water extraction and ethanol extraction methods. The water-soluble fraction and suspension fraction were separated from decocted solution by microporous filtering film; the water-soluble fraction was further divided into organic fraction and inorganic fraction by macroporous adsorption resin. The total contents of Cr, Cd, Pb and Cu and the amounts in different fractions were determined by wet digestion method and AAS, and morphological analysis was conducted. Results The extraction rates for the four elements were in the range of 25.14%-49.62%, with the sample recovery rates ranging 96.09%-100.43% and the relative standard deviation (RSD) being≤3% (n=6). Dissolution rate of metal elements by traditional water extraction method was low. The extraction rates of Pb and Cu by ethanol extraction method were higher than those of the water extraction method. Both in water decoction and ethanol decoction, the contents of four elements in the suspended species and inorganic species were higher than those in the soluble species and organic species. Cu content in organic species in water decoction was higher than that in ethanol decoction (24.33% vs 13.57%). Conclusion The metal element dissolution from Angelica dahurica can be decreased by optimizing the extraction method, which finally leads to reduced toxicity.