This article was originally published in 2018 and is preserved for historical interest.
Para-aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is a naturally occurring compound that was once considered part of the B-complex family, although it is no longer classified as a vitamin. It is used by intestinal bacteria in the production of folate and has also been used as an ingredient in some sunscreen products.
PABA is not considered an essential nutrient for humans, and deficiency is extremely rare. Today, it is used much less frequently as a dietary supplement than in previous decades.
