salivary reflex

The salivary reflex is the body's natural response to stimulate saliva production when triggered by certain stimuli, such as the smell, sight, or thought of food, or the presence of food in the mouth. This reflex involves nerve signals that activate salivary glands to release saliva, which helps in digesting food and maintaining oral health. It is an automatic process controlled by the nervous system, preparing the mouth for swallowing and digestion even before you start eating. In essence, the salivary reflex ensures saliva flows in response to cues related to eating, facilitating efficient digestion.