Para-aminobenzoic acid, or PABA for short, is needed in the body to process folic acid and helps the assimilation of pantothenic acid, both of which are B vitamins. It can be found in foods such as liver, spinach, mushrooms and whole grains. PABA is used as an ingredient in sunscreen and is taken as an oral supplement. PABA may cause some side effects, and thus there are some warnings against its use. As with any supplement, consult a healthcare practitioner before using it.
Sunscreen
PABA has been used for many years as the active ingredient in sunscreen. It works to reduce sun exposure by blocking UV rays including both UV-A and UV-B, which as a result, may help reduce sunburn and skin cancer. Although it is the most common ingredient found in sunscreen, many people may experience allergy to the substance and should look for PABA-free sunscreen products. It also may be irritating if gotten in the eyes, nose or mouth. Seek medical attention if you have signs of allergy or irritation to the skin or mucosal membranes after use. PABA will not work as a sunscreen if taken orally as a supplement.
Antioxidant Activity
PABA may also have some antioxidant activity. Antioxidants scavenge free radicals and protect against environmental exposure to toxins such as cigarette smoke, ozone and air pollution. According to the "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," its antioxidant activity may protect against diseases of aging such as arthritis by reducing inflammation and enhancing flexibility. When consumed in dietary amounts, PABA does not cause allergic reaction, but higher doses taken as supplements may cause allergic reactions, such as rash and itching, in some people. More serious allergic symptoms like swelling of the face or tongue or difficulty breathing require emergency treatment.
Irritable Bowel Syndrome
PABA aids the maintenance of healthy intestinal bacteria. It may be of some use in treating the inflamed gastrointestinal tract, which results in symptoms of constipation, pain and diarrhea of irritable bowel syndrome, IBS, and other digestive disorders. While some sufferers of IBS may experience relief, PABA is known to be acidic and may further irritate the GI tract and may cause allergy. Contact a medical professional before using PABA for any medical condition.
Skin Conditions
PABA has been used to treat Peyronie's Disease, a condition that causes fibrous material to form on the outside of the penis resulting in deformation. It has also been used to treat vitiligo, a bleaching of the skin, and morphea, a sclerotic skin condition where plaques have formed due to excessive collagen deposits, though the Mayo Clinic indicates there is not enough evidence to support its use. Some anecdotal reports claim that PABA can also reverse graying hair. The normal dietary intake of PABA is only 400 mcg for adults. Doses used to treat medical conditions are often much higher and should only be given under medical supervision.
References
- Health Care Clinic: Benefits of PABA
- Mayo Clinic: Morphea
- The Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2005
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