The enzyme in saliva that breaks down strach into sugar?

The enzyme in saliva that breaks down starch into sugar is called amylase, specifically salivary amylase or ptyalin. It initiates the digestion of carbohydrates by hydrolyzing the starch into simpler sugars, primarily maltose. This process begins in the mouth as food is chewed and mixed with saliva, facilitating further digestion in the stomach and intestines.