Vitamin B5, also called panthenol and pantothenic acid, provides support for biochemical reactions involving enzymes. Rich dietary sources of vitamin B5 include fortified cereals, meat, fish, poultry, dairy and vegetables. The rare deficiency of vitamin B5 resulting from inadequate nutrition may lead to general tiredness, nausea and inability to get adequate sleep. Vitamin B5 can be taken as a nutritional supplement, used on the skin for wound healing and applied externally in cosmetics and hair and skin products.
Essential for Metabolism
The body metabolizes carbohydrates, fats and proteins using enzymes that require a co-factor called CoA, which is made up of panthenol and other components. Panthenol on CoA ensures binding to the enzyme. These processes provide nutrients for cell growth and the function of organs, tissues and systems throughout the body.
Skin Repair
Panthenol penetrates the skin to provide moisture. Reviews of scientific research by the National Institutes of Health indicate mixed results for the use of vitamin B5 for treating burns or speeding wound healing. According to Jerajani Hemangi and research associates, their 2010 clinical study using a combination of panthenol, niacinamide and vitamin E produced improvements in skin tone and texture as well as fading darker areas on the skin. The Hemangi study was published in the "Indian Journal of Dermatology, Venereology and Leprology."
Manageable Hair
Panthenol exists naturally in healthy hair. Panthenol added to mascara and hair-care products penetrates the hair shaft to provide moisture and reduce breakage. According to reporting by David Djerassi in 1997 in the journal
"Drug & Cosmetic Industry", vitamin B5 nourishes the hair and helps prevent damage from overheating and drying.
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