Autonomic Nervous System Control of Digestive System Smooth Muscle

The autonomic nervous system innervates the smooth muscle of digestive viscera.

Parasympathetic nerves originate from the vagus nerve (cranial nerve X) and the pelvic splanchnic nerves. They generally have an excitatory effect on the digestive tract, increasing motility and secretions.

Sympathetic nerves originate from the thoracic and lumbar regions of the spinal cord. They generally have an inhibitory effect on the digestive tract, decreasing motility and secretions.

The enteric nervous system is a network of nerves that are located within the walls of the digestive tract. It is sometimes called the "brain of the gut" because it can independently control many of the digestive functions, such as motility and secretions.