Domestic Encyclopædia (1802)/Palate

PALATE, or the organ of taste, consists of that flesh which composes the roof, or the upper and inner part of the mouth. It has a similar structure with the gums, but a greater number of glands, situated in the posterior part near the Uvula (which see), and secreting a mucus that serves to lubricate the mouth and throat, as well as to facilitate deglutition, or the act of swallowing. These glands have a great number of apertures for the discharge of the secreted humour into the mouth: hence it will be understood that, if the stomach, or the glandular system, be in a disordered state, the palate likewise will become corrupted; and, that persons who continually stimulate their appetite with heating drugs, spices, liquors, &c. cannot expect to possess either a natural relish for plain and wholesome food, or a good digestion.—See Mastication.

For the cure of a vitiated palate, we cannot suggest a better remedy than temperance, and occasional abstinence. If, however, the mouth be affected with an unpleasant taste, especially in the morning, it generally originates from a foul or diseased stomach, which ought to be previously restored to its healthy state. As a palliative, or temporary remedy, we recommend frequent gargling and rinsing the whole mouth with infusions of aromatic herbs, or common tea slightly acidulated, or even toast and water; a practice equally conducive to health and cleanliness.—See also Teeth.