Plants and the Digestive System

Abstract

Digestion takes place in the alimentary canal by means of enzymes secreted mostly by the stomach, pancreas and small intestine. Mechanical movements such as chewing initially break down food before mixing it in the stomach and intestine. Besides enzymes, some glands in the intestine produce a mucus which lubricates and protects the digestive tract, but which can also interact with and reduce the absorption of herbal medicines. Digestion is facilitated by peristaisis, a wave of muscle contractions that begins in the duodenum and spreads towards the colon.