Fig. 7

Graphic summary. In the crude EEP extract, the EAEP fraction, but not WEP, DEP or PEEP fractions, can mediate the effects on gastrointestinal motility. One of the key bioactive substances in EAEP is identified as quercetin, which may mediate the functions of EAEP in promoting relaxation and inhibiting contraction of gastrointestinal smooth muscle. The underlying molecular mechanisms involve the regulation of intracellular calcium influx, COX pathway and NO-GC-PKC pathway