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An olfactory‐submandibular salivary reflex in humans
Author(s) -
Lee VM,
Linden RW
Publication year - 1992
Publication title -
experimental physiology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.925
H-Index - 101
eISSN - 1469-445X
pISSN - 0958-0670
DOI - 10.1113/expphysiol.1992.sp003578
Subject(s) - reflex , saliva , submandibular gland , medicine , salivary gland , olfactory perception , olfaction , biology , pathology , anesthesia , neuroscience
In a previous study we concluded that there is no olfactory‐parotid salivary reflex in humans (Lee & Linden, 1991). The present study examines the olfactory‐submandibular salivary reflex. Bilateral submandibular saliva was collected using custom‐made collection devices for each of nine subjects. Salivary flow was measured in response to six appetizing odours: peppermint, vanilla, chocolate, beef, tomato and lemon. A significant increase in salivary flow was seen in response to each. There was no significant response to distilled water. We conclude that an olfactory‐submandibular salivary reflex does exist in humans.