The enzyme found in saliva is called amylase. This enzyme initiates the process of digestion by breaking down starches present in food into simpler sugars. Amylase is important for efficient digestion, beginning in the mouth as food is chewed and mixed with saliva. It allows for quicker absorption of sugars in the digestive tract, making nutritional intake more efficient. Salivary amylase is one of the first digestive enzymes that interact with food, highlighting the essential role saliva plays in both digestion and maintaining oral health.