PABA

Also known as: PABA or para-aminobenzoic acid.

Home Remedies using PABA (para-aminobenzoic acid):

PABA is usually thought of as an ingredient in sunscreens, but it is a nutritional ingredient too.

It is a basic constituent of folic acid and thought of as a member of the B-complex but not considered a true vitamin.

Benefits and Uses of PABA:

The health and wellness benefits of PABA include:

• Thick, healthy hair and reversal of the graying process
• Assists with the break down of proteins
• Aids in the formation of red blood cells
• Aids in maintaining intestinal flora
• Vitiligo sufferers with over-pigmentation of the skin, or lacking pigment in the skin, have claimed an improvement of the condition
• Helps in the utilization of pantothenic acid

PABA is taken for many different reasons. These include:

• As a co-enzyme to improve the breakdown and utilization of protein in the body
• Improved red blood cell formation
• Assists the manufacture of folic acid in the intestines

PABA is used in sunscreen products which are applied to the skin because it can protect the skin from harmful ultra-violet rays.

However, consumption of PABA does not have the sun protecting effect.

PABA comes in the following over the counter forms:

• Tablet
• Capsule
• Liquid in liquid multi-vitamins
• Sunscreens

The largest amounts of PABA can be found in:

• Kidney
• Liver
• Molasses
• Whole grains
• Brewer’s yeast
• Mushrooms
• Spinach
• and Can be manufactured by intestinal flora

Side Effects of PABA:

Sunscreens higher than SPF “8” may reduce the production of vitamin D in the body.

Nausea, skin rashes and vomiting may occur from too much PABA consumption.

Also, when excessive levels of PABA are stored in the body, it may cause liver damage.

Taking Sulfa drugs may cause a deficiency of PABA and PABA may make Sulfa drugs ineffective.