Saliva is produced within the salivary glands. It has many benefits and is an important factor when it comes to digestion. The sympathetic and parasympathetic nervous systems offer a constant supply of saliva to the mouth, even when food is not present. An enzyme called amylase is found within the secretions of the membranes which line the oral cavity and the salivary glands. Amylase helps to soften and break down food so that the digestive process can begin after swallowing. Once the bolus has been swallowed; it begins its journey into the pharynx