Disclosed are: a method for extracting a traditional herbal medicine component comprising a process in which a traditional oriental medicine component is steamed together with polished rice; and a composition for an external application to skin comprising an extract which has been extracted by means of the method. The component extracted by means of the extraction method reduces the cytotoxicity of the traditional oriental medicine, is recognized as being effective in alleviating skin irritation, and exhibits an outstanding skin-whitening effect.