Other names for PABA

ácido paraaminobenzoico
p.a.b.a.
paba
paba-aminobenzoic acid
paba usp
p-aminobenzoic acid
p-aminobenzoic acid powder
para amino benzoate
para-aminobenzoate
para amino benzoic acid
para aminobenzoic acid
para-amino benzoic acid
para-aminobenzoic acid
para-aminobenzoic acid (paba)
para-amino benzoic acid (papb)
para-amino benzonic acid
spirulina-bound para amino benzoic acid
vitamin b10

Synopsis of PABA

History

Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) has a rich history of use in medicinal and nutritional products. Discovered in the early 20th century, PABA was initially recognized as a vital nutrient, often grouped with the B vitamins due to its involvement in folic acid synthesis. Historically, PABA was celebrated for its role in supporting skin health. During the mid-1900s, it gained widespread popularity as an ingredient in sunscreen formulations, thanks to its ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) rays, thereby protecting the skin from sunburn.

Medicinally, PABA was employed to address a variety of conditions. It was used as a remedy for certain skin disorders, such as vitiligo and Peyronie’s disease, where it was believed to contribute to skin pigmentation and elasticity. Additionally, PABA was sometimes recommended to promote healthy hair growth and prevent hair loss, as it supports the metabolism of proteins and the production of folic acid, both crucial for cellular health and regeneration.

In herbal medicine, PABA has often been included in synergistic combinations with other B vitamins, biotin, and minerals to enhance overall vitality and well-being. These blends were thought to support the nervous system, boost energy levels, and improve mental clarity. Herbalists have appreciated PABA’s gentle, supportive nature, often pairing it with herbs like horsetail and nettle to amplify its benefits for hair, skin, and nail health. Overall, PABA’s historical contributions to natural medicine and nutrition have been both diverse and valuable, making it a cherished ingredient in traditional wellness practices.

Traditional and scientific validation

Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a compound that has garnered attention in the nutritional and dermatological fields for several decades. Historically, PABA was categorized as part of the B-complex vitamins, sometimes referred to as vitamin B10, although it is not recognized as an essential nutrient for humans. It naturally occurs in foods such as grains, eggs, milk, and meat, and is also synthesized by gut bacteria.

PABA’s most prominent historical use was as an ingredient in sunscreens, owing to its ability to absorb ultraviolet (UV) light and protect the skin from sunburn. In nutrition, PABA has been studied for its potential roles in supporting skin health, hair pigmentation, and digestive function. Early studies suggested that PABA supplementation might help in conditions like vitiligo and certain types of anemia, primarily due to its role in folic acid synthesis in bacteria. Additionally, there have been anecdotal reports of PABA improving hair growth and reducing graying, though robust clinical evidence is limited.

While PABA continues to be marketed in some nutritional products, scientific validation for its use in humans remains inconclusive. Clinical studies are limited and results are mixed regarding its efficacy for skin or hair health. Nevertheless, PABA’s historical contributions to the understanding of B-vitamins and its pioneering role in sun protection highlight its importance in nutritional science. More rigorous research is needed to fully elucidate its potential health benefits, but its longstanding inclusion in nutritional formulations reflects a positive legacy in health and wellness.

PABA is used for these health conditions

Hair (graying) (Traditional)

PABA is used to support these body systems

Hair (Traditional)
Skin (Traditional)

Products containing PABA

We currently have no products on Vitabase that contain this ingredient.