Amylase is an enzyme that helps break down carbohydrates, specifically starches, into simpler sugars. It is produced in the saliva by the salivary glands and in the pancreas. Amylase plays a crucial role in digestion, starting the process in the mouth before food reaches the stomach. There are two main types of amylase: alpha-amylase and beta-amylase. Alpha-amylase is found in humans and many other organisms, while beta-amylase is primarily found in plants and bacteria. The activity of amylase is essential for converting complex carbohydrates into sugars that the body can easily absorb and use for energy.