PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid)

Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a member of the B complex and is part of the folic acid molecule. It is synthesized by intestinal bacteria.

What it does in the body

PABA may be important for skin, hair and intestinal health.

Deficiency

No deficiency symptoms have been recorded.

Sources

PABA is found in brewer's yeast, wheatgerm, liver, eggs and molasses.

Toxic effects

High doses of PABA may cause nausea, vomiting and possibly liver damage.

Therapeutic uses of supplements

PABA is used as a sunscreen to protect against ultraviolet rays. It has also been used to turn gray hair back to its natural color, although this has not had wide success. PABA has also been used to treat vitiligo, a skin depigmenting condition.

Cautions

PABA is a necessary nutrient for bacteria and may reduce the effectiveness of sulfa antibiotics if taken at the same time.