Hey, first, I never advocated using saliva on wounds of others (except a Mom for her own young child) - only your own (!) - and then only if proper antiseptics are not nearby. The benefit is that the dirt can washed out easier, and - do a google search - human saliva has substances (enzyms, IIRC) that have an antiseptic effect. It may be a small benefit, but since it doesn´t harm you at all, you shouldn´t worry. Did you grow up in urban areas?