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The Uses of PABA

PABA is an abbreviation for the organic compound para-aminobenzoic acid. Foods that contain PABA include sunflower seeds, liver, brewer's yeast, wheat germ, eggs and molasses. PABA may be present in small amounts in vitamin supplements. According to Dr. Elson M. Haas, M.D., PABA supports our metabolism and red blood cells. Serious side effects have been found in PABA dosages above 8 grams daily. PABA is contraindicated if you are taking the antibiotics Bactrim or Septra.

  1. Sunscreen

    • According to Natural Standard, PABA absorbs ultraviolet B rays. This is why PABA is a primary ingredient in some sunscreens. PABA helps prevent sunburn and may reduce your risk of skin cancers.

    Synthesis of Folic Acid

    • Intestinal bacteria are able to synthesize folic acid from PABA found in foods and supplements. Breads, cereals and other grain foods are often supplemented with folic acid, so a PABA deficiency does not necessarily lead to a folic acid deficiency.

    Peyronie's Disease

    • PABA has been studied as a treatment for Peyronie's Disease, a condition that causes the penis to bend because of fibrous plaque accumulations. According to studies published in "Der Urologe A," "Tech Urol" and "Urologia International," PABA slowed the progress of the disease but did little or nothing to eliminate the accumulated plaque.

    Test Marker for Pancreatic Insufficiency

    • National Standard reports that PABA has been used to determine urinary output and pancreatic health. Urine is examined to determine how much PABA is excreted by the pancreas.

    Skin and Hair

    • PABA is reported to stimulate hair growth and return gray hair back to its original color. PABA may be combined with vitamin E, folic acid, pantothenic acid, and biotin as a hair restorative. Studies reported in 1946 in The British Medical Journal and The Lancet stated that PABA had some success in restoring color to gray hair. In "Let's Get Well," Adelle Davis reports that she used a combination of inositol, folic acid, biotin and PABA to stimulate hair growth she had lost due to stress and lack of sleep.

      PABA also may be used to reduce wrinkles and signs of aging.

    Body Odor

    • According to Maureen Salaman in her book "All Your Health Questions Answered Naturally," Dr. Ross Gordon recommends a combination of magnesium, zinc, PABA and B6 to reduce body odor. Daily Glow lists the recommended supplement amounts of 100 mg of PABA, 200-500 mg of magnesium, 50 mg of a high-potency B complex vitamin and 100 mg of B6 for the treatment of body odor. No recommended amount is given for zinc.

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