PCWE has been used widely in oriental traditional medicine in treating edema and diarrhea. Recent studies have shown that PCWE may also have anti-tumor and anti-inflammation acts. However, few studies have been conducted to reveal the mechanisms of these effects. In the present study, we tried to elucidate the mechanisms by investigating the effects on PCWE on the regulation of ion transport across the epithelial membranes of colon, which is also useful in explaining the anti-diarrhea and anti-edema effects. Alternation in membrane potential and short-circuit current (Isc) were examined using the Ussing chamber technique. Our results showed that PCWE decreased Isc upon application to the apical side. Amiloride inhibited this Isc induced by PCWE indicating that PCWE acted on amiloride-sensitive sodium channel of the epithelium. However, when PCWE was applied to the serosal side, the Isc was not changed, indicating a minimal influence of this substance on ATP-driving Na+/K+ counter transporters. Our data also showed that the Isc decreased by PCWE could be inhibited by bumetanide and chlorothiazide (Cl¡Â channel inhibitors). We therefore concluded that PCWE could both enhance sodium transport and stimulate the secretion of Cl¡Â in colon epithelium.