Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Salivation is the process of producing and releasing saliva from salivary glands in the mouth. It's often triggered by the sight, smell, or thought of food.
Related terms
Digestive System: This is the body system that breaks down food so it can be used by the body. Saliva plays an important role in this process as it starts breaking down food even before you swallow.
Enzymes: These are proteins that speed up chemical reactions in our bodies. In saliva, enzymes help break down food particles.
Gustatory Response: This term refers to taste response; when we eat something tasty (or not), our bodies have specific responses - one of them being increased salivation.