You’re right in thinking saliva plays a bigger role in digestion than just aiding in swallowing. In Ayurveda, saliva, known as “kleda,” is vital in kickstarting the digestive process. It contains enzymatic properties, notably amylase, that begin breaking down carbohydrates right in the mouth. If digestion is slow or you’re experiencing dry mouth, it could be linked to your prakriti and dosha imbalances.
Dry mouth can often be associated with a Vata or Pitta imbalance. Vata brings dryness, while Pitta’s heat can also lead to dryness. Meanwhile, Kapha-predominant individuals might have excess saliva but could still experience slow digestion often due to feeling sluggish.
Let’s talk practical steps to balance this out. Spice-wise, cumin seeds, fennel, and ajwain can be helpful. Sipping warm cumin or fennel tea 30 mins after a meal can stimulate saliva production and aid digestion. Shatavari, an Ayurvedic herb, is known to nourish the body’s fluids and sometimes helps with dryness.
About food, not just avoiding spicy things, think about incorporating more moist, easy-to-digest meals, like stewed fruit, soups, or kitchari in your diet. Avoid heavy, rich, and dry foods which can exacerbate Vata’s dryness.
Morning sluggishness could be because your agni (digestive fire) is low. An Ayurveda tip is to start your day with a cup of warm water infused with lemon and honey — it can help stimulate saliva and awaken agni gently.
Don’t forget the lifestyle. Try oil pulling with sesame or coconut oil in the morning to nourish the mouth’s tissues and support saliva function. Also, regular yoga practice can help keep those doshas in check.
But everyone’s different, so be patient. It could take a few weeks to start noticing changes. Stay peculiar to your unique constitution, listen to your body, adjust based on how you’re feeling day by day. If you’re dealing with persistent issues, consulting with a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner might give you more tailored advice.
