Supplements

PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid)

PABA (Para-aminobenzoic acid), while not considered a member of the family of B vitamins, is typically found in a B-complex supplement.

It is needed to synthesize folic acid in the gastrointestinal tract. PABA is one of the basic constituents of folate and also helps in the assimilation of pantothenic acid (Vitamin B5).

Found in most sunscreen lotions, PABA can also be taken internally to protect the skin from harmful ultra-violet B rays [UVB], thereby protecting against the possibility of skin cancer. An oral supplement of 1-2 grams, taken before going out into the sun, will also help to protect your skin.

Supplementing with PABA may restore graying hair to its original color, which was caused by stress or nutritional deficiency.

Scleroderma is a disorder of the immune system where hard, fibrous tissue grows throughout the skin and blocks blood flow to internal organs. PABA has been shown to soften skin and improve the symptoms of this disease, although it is not considered a cure.

PABA can be helpful in relieving all sorts of connective tissue problems, including arthritis. Acting as an anti-inflammatory, PABA can influence other autoimmune disorders, including thyroiditis.

Vitiligo, the loss of pigmentation which creates blotches on the skin, has been treated with PABA for more than fifty years. Even modest doses are very beneficial, with dramatic improvements possible after six months of regular supplementation.

For people allergic to gluten and its related proteins, supplements can counteract stomach distress and gastrointestinal damage. PABA also aids in the maintenance of healthy intestinal flora.

Deficiency: Depression, fatigue, and gastrointestinal disorders, graying of the hair, irritability, nervousness, and patchy areas of white skin [vitiligo].

Depleting Agents: Coffee, alcohol, estrogen, sulfa drugs, food processing.

Sources: Brewer's yeast, kidney, liver, molasses, mushrooms, spinach, and whole grains.

Precautions: Generally considered safe and nontoxic. Very high doses may cause malaise, liver ailments, ever or low white blood cell count. Some people experience allergic reactions to topical PABA but this does not necessarily mean that it cannot be taken orally.

Dosage Ranges and Duration of Administration: There are no RDA standards set. The usual dose of PABA is between 30 to 100 mg. three times a day. PABA is usually included in multi-vitamins and B-complex formulas; but is also available as an individual supplement.