Abstract: AIM: To explore the effects of the extract of Raphanus sativus roots (Er)on gastrointestinal stimulatory activity and its possible mechanism.METHODS: After Er were administrated orally,the remaining rate of substance in stomach,the distance of charcoal meal in intestines was measured.The samples of isolated ileum segment from guinea pigs were prepared,then the contraction intensity and frequency of the smooth muscle were measured pre-and post treatment of Er.RESULTS: The crude extract(Ecr),the petroleum spirit(Ept),chloroform(Ecl)and aqueous(Eaq)fractions of Raphanus sativus roots all showed dose-dependent spasmogenicity in guineapig ileum,and could abolished by pyrilamin,the crude extract being more potent.The Er could significantly improve gastric emptying,and it also could enhance the transit of charcoal meal in mice at 30-100 mg·kg^-1.CONCLUSION: The extract of Raphanus sativus roots demonstrated spasmogenic effect on gastrointestinal tract,and this effect may through activating histaminergic (H₁)receptor.

Key words: Raphanus sativus roots, histamin, intestinal propulsion, gastric emptying, smooth muscle of ileum