PABA
(Para-aminobenzoic Acid)
DESCRIPTION:
PABA is often thought of as a member
of the B complex but is not a true vitamin. PABA is part of the
structure of Folic
Acid.
The functions of PABA in humans are
as yet not fully understood, but it appears to be involved in
the metabolism of amino
acids and red blood cells.
Deficiency results in Skin
conditions, such as loss of pigment, Eczema;
or irritability and depression.
There is no established RDA. It is
recommended that maximum intakes in a supplement are between
30-100mg daily.
Apart from its inclusion at low
levels in multivitamin supplements, the major accepted use of
PABA is as a remedy for Vitiligo
(a condition characterised by de-pigmentation of the skin) (1).
PABA has been used in sclerodoma
(thickening of the skin) (2,3) and in Lupus
erythematosus - another severe skin disorder. However, the
dosages used in clinical trials for these conditions were
extremely high and should not be self-administered.
PABA is also used topically as a sun
screen agent (4), but there is no evidence to say that it works
internally for this purpose.
PABA appears quite safe at most
dosage levels, but recent studies show 8g or more daily may
cause malaise, fever and liver complaints.
INTERACTIONS
AND CONTRA-INDICATIONS
Sulfa drugs:
PABA interferes with and neutralises sulfa drugs.
Food Sources - PABA:
Not many figures are produced on the amount of PABA in food.
However, liver, eggs, wheatgerm
and molasses are known to be good sources.
REFERENCES:
1. Pozo Carballido JL. A new
treatment for vitiligo:
topical Kandil therapy combined with oral PABA. Actas
Dermosifiliogr, Nov, 69:11-12, 369-74, 1978.
2. "Inflammation
and Diseases of Connective Tissus", L C Mills & J H
Moyer, Saunders Co, 1961.
3. Zarafonetis CJ et al. Retrospective studies in scleroderma:
effect of Potassium
para-aminobenzoate on survival. J Clin Epidemiol, 41:193-205,
1988.
4. "Handbook of Dietary Supplements", Pamela Mason,
Blackwell Science, 1995.
