Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)

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Other names for pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)

Vitamin B5
Calcium Pantothenate
Dexpanthenol

Synopsis of pantothenic acid (vitamin B5)

Pantothenic acid, also known as vitamin B5, is a water-soluble member of the B-complex vitamin family, essential for energy metabolism, adrenal function, nervous system health, and the synthesis of coenzyme A (CoA) and acyl carrier proteins. It is naturally present in a wide variety of foods—such as whole grains, legumes, eggs, meat, dairy, and avocados—and its name derives from the Greek word pantothen, meaning “from everywhere,” reflecting its widespread availability in nature.

In the body, pantothenic acid plays a central role in converting carbohydrates, fats, and proteins into usable energy. It is necessary for the production of CoA, a critical enzyme cofactor involved in fatty acid synthesis and breakdown, steroid hormone production, and neurotransmitter metabolism. It also supports wound healing, skin regeneration, and cholesterol balance.

Supplementally, pantothenic acid is used to support adrenal health, especially in cases of chronic stress, fatigue, or burnout, where adrenal hormone production is taxed. It’s also used in acne management, often at high doses, due to its role in regulating sebum production and reducing skin inflammation. Some practitioners use it to support digestive function, nerve health, and detoxification, given its importance in liver metabolism.

Pantothenic acid is often included in multivitamins, stress formulas, and B-complex supplements. It is generally considered safe, with no known toxicity, though very high doses may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort.

Historical Use in Medicine
Pantothenic acid was discovered in the 1930s by Roger J. Williams, one of the pioneers of vitamin research. It was initially identified as a growth factor for yeast and later confirmed to be essential for humans and animals. During the 1940s and 1950s, its role in CoA synthesis was uncovered, establishing it as a key player in energy metabolism.

Though pantothenic acid does not have a long-standing history in traditional herbal medicine—since it is a nutrient, not a plant-based remedy—it quickly gained prominence in early nutritional therapy. By the mid-20th century, it was included in treatments for fatigue, stress-related conditions, neuralgia, and burns.

During World War II, pantothenic acid was studied for its role in preventing "burning feet syndrome", a condition observed in malnourished prisoners of war and attributed to B-vitamin deficiencies. It was also used to aid wound healing and tissue repair in surgical recovery.

In modern times, pantothenic acid’s role in skin health has been widely explored. Dexpanthenol, a derivative of pantothenic acid, is frequently used in creams, ointments, and eye drops for its moisturizing and healing effects.

Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is used for these health conditions

Acne (Scientific)
Adrenal Fatigue (Traditional)
Burning Feet or Hands (Traditional)
Energy (lack of) (Scientific)
Fatigue (Traditional)
Hair (loss or thinning) (Traditional)

pantothenic acid (vitamin B5) is used to support these body systems

Adrenal Cortex (Scientific)
Adrenal Glands (Traditional)
Brain (Scientific)
Cortisol (Traditional)
Glandular System (Scientific)
Hair (Scientific)
Mitochondria (Scientific)
Nerves (Scientific)
Skin (Scientific)