Mind-Boggling Facts About Saliva: From Wound Healing to Vodka Making

Salamis is much more than just saliva. It's a liquid diplomat, a protector, and even has a hand in vodka making. Here are some of the most mind-blowing facts about saliva:

The Healing Power of Saliva

Saliva contains the protein histatin, which is known to aid in wound healing. This protein plays a significant role in maintaining oral health and can help repair minor wounds in the mouth.

A Lot of Spit!

Produce lots of spit in a lifetime! On average, a person produces enough saliva in a lifetime to fill two swimming pools. Continuous production of saliva helps to maintain the right pH levels, assist in swallowing, and protect the teeth from acid attacks.

Amazing Giraffe Saliva

Giraffes are known for their unique behavior when it comes to saliva. At the Giraffe Manor in Nairobi, guests often feed giraffes, which results in a very slobbery “kiss.” These kisses are safe, though, as giraffe saliva contains antiseptic properties that protect the animals from spiky thorns and other plant matter in their diet.

Saliva’s Role in Brewing

Sals is not just for digestion and protection. It has played a role in traditional brewing methods as well. Saliva contains amylase, an enzyme that converts starch into sugar. This conversion allows for the production of alcoholic beverages. Historically, the process would involve boiling potatoes without salt, saving the water, and adding saliva to it. The starch would then convert to sugar over a couple of days, and yeast would convert the sugar to alcohol, which could be distilled to make vodka. In South America and Mexico, women would chew corn and grains before adding them to the mixture, utilizing their saliva to facilitate the conversion to beer.

Antimicrobial Properties of Saliva

Saliva is a powerhouse when it comes to fighting off infections. It contains a high concentration of good bacteria and antibodies, which are much more abundant than harmful germs. The idea that people have more germs in their mouth than a dog is a myth. In fact, the anti-viral and antibacterial content of saliva is so powerful that it can kill off most invading germs without causing serious infections. Most illnesses, including colds, are actually caused by germs entering through the eyes, not the mouth or nose, as many people believe. Touching something infected and then rubbing your eyes is a common way to catch a cold or other illnesses.

In conclusion, saliva is more interesting and useful than you might have imagined. From wound healing and brewing to protecting against infections, saliva is a fascinating component of our oral health and beyond.