MOLECULE

p-Aminobenzoic acid

p-Aminobenzoic acid, also known as PABA or p-aminobenzoate, belongs to the class of organic compounds known as aminobenzoic acids. These are benzoic acids containing an amine group attached to the benzene moiety. p-Aminobenzoic acid is a moderately basic compound (based on its pKa). p-Aminobenzoic acid exists in all living species, ranging from bacteria to humans. Outside of the human body, p-Aminobenzoic acid is found, on average, in the highest concentration within pineapples. p-Aminobenzoic acid has also been detected, but not quantified in, milk (cow) and rices. This could make p-aminobenzoic acid a potential biomarker for the consumption of these foods. An aminobenzoic acid in which the amino group is para to the carboxy group. p-Aminobenzoic acid is expected to be in Cannabis as all living plants are known to produce and metabolize it.