Research Progress of Gastrointestinal Mucosal Protective Effect of Chinese Medicine.

This paper summarizes researches from 2000 to 2010 on Chinese medicine materials that promote digestion. It categorizes them as tonics, digestives, Qi-regulating drugs, aromatic drugs for dispelling dampness, astringents, drugs for warming the interior and drugs for inducing diuresis and excreting dampness, and elaborates their gastrointestinal mucosal protective effects respectively. The mechanism of drugs protecting gastrointestinal mucosa lies in improving gastrointestinal immunity, and regulating intestinal flora and gastrointestinal hormone level. At present, chemical medicines promoting gastrointestinal motility, such as Motihium and Cisapride, have limited effects along with obvious side effects. Hence, the development of Chinese medicine promoting digestion has a bright prospect. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]