What is the purpose of saliva? - Lubrication and binding. Saliva binds chewed food to make it easier to swallow and digest. - Moistening of dry food. Saliva moistens food. Without it, we could not taste food. - Mouth hygiene. Saliva bathes the mouth and keeps it clean. Certain enzymes in saliva destroy disease-causing bacteria. - Starch digestion. Salivary glands produce small amounts of amylase, which aids in starch digestion. - Alkaline buffer. Saliva helps keep acids in the mouth and stomach in balance.