Trends and Insights in Medicinal Plant Extract Research: A Ten-Year Bibliometric and Visualization Study

Abstract

This study provides a detailed bibliometric analysis of research on medicinal plant extracts conducted over the past decade, with a focus on their therapeutic applications. Using the Scopus database, 1105 publications from 2014 to 2024 were analyzed to uncover trends in publication volume, collaboration networks, and research clusters. The analysis revealed a steady annual growth rate of 1.98%, with most studies concentrating on the anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of plant extracts, particularly those containing bioactive compounds such as flavonoids, alkaloids, and terpenoids. The study also highlighted the increasing international collaborations in the field, with 30.84% of the documents featuring cross-border co-authorship. Leading contributors to this research include India, China, and Italy, whose researchers and institutions have played a significant role in advancing the field. The widespread use of advanced analytical techniques, including High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, has enhanced the identification and characterization of bioactive molecules. Keywords such as “plant extract”, “antioxidant activity”, and “phytochemistry” were the most frequently occurring, reflecting dominant research themes. Additionally, the h-index analysis showed that 59 of the documents had received at least 59 citations, highlighting the significant impact of this body of research. The study underscores the growing role of phytochemicals in the development of alternative therapies for chronic diseases such as cancer, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. These findings provide a roadmap for future research, encouraging further exploration of plant-based therapies with an emphasis on sustainability, bioactive compound efficacy, and global collaboration.

1. Introduction

The study of medicinal plants has significantly advanced in the last decade, with an increasing focus on their potential for drug discovery and therapeutic applications. Researchers have intensified efforts in extracting, isolating, and analyzing phytochemical constituents of these plants due to their diverse pharmacological properties, leading to a substantial increase in publications, especially in areas like anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant activities of plant extracts [1]. The integration of advanced analytical techniques, such as High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) and Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), has revolutionized the identification and analysis of bioactive molecules with precision. Additionally, methods such as Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectroscopy have deepened our understanding of molecular interactions and structures. These technologies not only help map metabolic pathways but also enhance the understanding of therapeutic potential. Furthermore, the use of genomic technologies like DNA barcoding has advanced the authentication of medicinal plants, aiding in the exploration of plant-based therapies and optimizing the synthesis of phytochemicals for increased bioactive compound yields [2]. As the field of medicinal plant research embraces these technological advancements, there is a growing exploration of their applications in treating diseases such as diabetes, cancer, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s, alongside various microbial and fungal infections [3,4].

The holistic properties of plant extracts, which include a complex mix of bioactive compounds like alkaloids, flavonoids, terpenes, and phenols, provide therapeutic benefits that are often enhanced by their synergistic interactions. This synergy, coupled with reduced side effects and natural origin, positions plant-based compounds as promising alternatives to synthetic pharmaceuticals. Looking forward, the potential to replace many chemical drugs with natural bioactive molecules extracted from plants seems increasingly feasible [5]. The integration of phytochemicals into mainstream medical practice could potentially transform therapeutic strategies, providing more sustainable, effective, and less invasive treatment options [6]. This growing field aligns with the global shift toward natural health solutions, emphasizing eco-friendly practices and reducing reliance on synthetic drugs. For developing countries rich in biodiversity, plant-derived medicines offer significant opportunities for both economic growth and health improvements. By leveraging their natural resources, these nations can foster local research and development, leading to innovative healthcare solutions, as demonstrated by a study conducted by Chaachouay et al. [7,8], which highlights the role of plant-derived natural products in drug discovery, with compounds from plants such as Atractylis gummifera contributing to advancements in treating chronic diseases such as cancer and diabetes. These discoveries not only promote local innovation but also provide global health solutions by developing more effective and sustainable therapeutic agents. In line with this shift, the study employs advanced bibliometric tools to systematically analyze the trajectory of medicinal plant research over the past decade. It reveals critical patterns that underscore the growing scientific consensus on the therapeutic efficacy of plant extracts. This comprehensive overview offers key insights for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, guiding the future development of next generation phytotherapeutic agents.

2. Bibliometric Analysis Methods

The framework for this bibliometric study consisted of four essential steps, as illustrated in Figure 1. The first step, Preparation, involved developing a research strategy, selecting the Scopus database, and identifying relevant keywords to guide the search. The second step, Publication Selection, applied specific criteria to refine the search results. In the third step, Data Processing and Cleaning, documents were verified to ensure alignment with the study’s objectives. Finally, the fourth step, Visualization and Analysis, utilized R Studio version 4.3.2 and VOS viewer version 1.4.20 to conduct a detailed bibliometric analysis. Each of these steps is elaborated upon in the following sections, providing a comprehensive explanation of the process.

In the Preparation stage, Scopus was selected as the database due to its extensive coverage of international scientific literature. Scopus is renowned for its depth across various disciplines, especially in science, technology, and medicine, making it invaluable for analyzing global research trends and the impact of scientific publications. Our choice of Scopus is supported by its excellent features for citation tracking and its broad inclusion of global scientific works. This capability is crucial as it allows us to explore a wide perspective on research activities and collaborations worldwide, specifically focusing on medicinal plant research, phytochemicals, and biological activities [9].

To ensure the relevance and precision of this bibliometric study, we established clear research criteria focused on the extraction and analysis of phytochemicals and their biological activities in medicinal plants. We selected targeted keywords such as “extract”, “medicinal plant”, “phytochemical”, “analysis”, “biological”, and “activity” to guide our search within the Scopus database. The selection of these keywords was designed to capture the most relevant trends and discussions surrounding the extraction and analysis of medicinal plant compounds. Each keyword was chosen strategically to ensure the inclusion of pertinent studies while covering a broad spectrum of research within the field. Below is a detailed explanation of the selected keywords and their relevance:

Extract: This keyword focuses the search on studies related to extraction techniques used for isolating bioactive compounds from medicinal plants. Extraction is a fundamental step in phytochemical research, directly affecting the yield and purity of the compounds, which are critical for pharmacological evaluation.

Medicinal Plant: Including “medicinal plant” narrows the search to studies focused on plants with known or potential therapeutic properties. This term ensures that the retrieved research centers on both traditional and modern applications of these plants, aligning with the core objectives of phytotherapeutic research.

Phytochemical: Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds derived from plants. This keyword targets studies that investigate their chemical structures, properties, and therapeutic effects, which are of great interest due to their potential for diverse therapeutic applications.

Analysis: This keyword broadens the scope to include various scientific methods used to study medicinal plants. It covers chemical, biological, and physical analyses, essential for understanding the composition, potency, and mechanisms of action of plant-derived compounds.

Biological Activity: This keyword focuses on studies assessing the biological and pharmacological effects of plant extracts and phytochemicals. By including this term, we aimed to capture research on a wide range of activities, including antimicrobial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and anticancer properties.

The combination of these keywords was carefully designed to ensure a comprehensive yet specific search strategy. This approach allowed us to build a robust dataset that reflects current trends, collaborations, and advancements in medicinal plant research. By targeting these key concepts, the bibliometric analysis provides an in-depth view of the latest developments in the extraction, analysis, and application of medicinal plant phytochemicals.

In the second step, we refined the search parameters to focus on the most relevant documents. We limited the search to publications from 2014 to 2024 and included only articles published in English, Portuguese, Chinese, and Russian to capture a broader international scope. After applying language filters and restricting document types to articles, journals, book chapters, and conference proceedings, we initially retrieved 1550 documents. Titles and abstracts were manually screened to ensure relevance to the study’s objectives, resulting in 1287 documents retained for further review. Following additional checks to remove duplicates and irrelevant documents, a final total of 1105 documents was included in the analysis. After selecting the 1105 documents, each was manually verified to ensure relevance to the study’s objectives. A comprehensive bibliometric analysis was then conducted using R Studio, enhanced with the bibliometrix package. This approach facilitated the efficient management of bibliographic data, enabling the calculation of key bibliometric indicators such as the h-index and impact factors, while also generating detailed statistical and graphical representations of the findings [10]. To complement the bibliometric analysis, we utilized VOS viewer for its robust network visualization capabilities. This tool was instrumental in identifying and illustrating connections between authors, citations, and keywords, allowing us to pinpoint key researchers, significant research clusters, and prevailing themes within the field. Ultimately, VOS viewer provided a clearer understanding of the intellectual structure of the research landscape [11].

In this bibliometric study, we utilized three key metrics: links, total link strength, and occurrences. Links measure how often each keyword is connected to others, providing insight into the breadth of topics associated with that keyword. A higher link count suggests a keyword’s central role in connecting diverse research themes. Total link strength aggregates the intensity of these connections, reflecting not only how frequently a keyword co-occurs with others but also the strength of these relationships. This metric highlights the keyword’s overall influence within the network of research themes. Occurrences count the number of times a keyword appears across the analyzed documents, offering a direct measure of its prevalence in the literature. This metric indicates which topics are most frequently explored in the field.

Together, these metrics deepen our understanding of the intellectual structure of the field by identifying core research areas and how they interrelate, providing valuable insights into the evolution of medicinal plant research.

3. Results

3.1. Bibliometric Analysis Overview

3.1.1. Main Data Highlights

Table 1. Essential information on the data collected.

Description		Results
Main information on the data	Timespan	2014–2024
	Sources	407
	Documents	1105
	Annual Growth Rate%	1.98%
	Document Average Age	4.19
	Average Citations per Doc	14.2
Document contents	Keywords Plus (id)	13,677
	Author’s Keywords (de)	3625
Authors	Authors	6555
	Authors of Single-authored Docs	21
Authors’ collaboration	Single-authored Docs	34
	Co-authors per Doc	6.12
Document types	International Co-authorships %	30.84%
	Article	1058
	Book Chapter	10
	Conference Paper	11
	Review	26
Language	English	1272
	Portuguese	4
	Chinese	2
	Russian	2

provides more information on the bibliometric data collected from 2014 to 2024. It presents a snapshot of 1105 documents sourced from 407 individual publications, indicating a robust annual growth rate of 1.98% in the field. The documents have an average age of 4.19 years, with each accruing an average of 14.2 citations, reflecting their significant academic impact. Regarding keywords, the dataset reports 13,677 ‘Keywords Plus’ instances, which are supplementary terms indexed by databases, alongside 3625 ‘Author’s Keywords’ directly provided by the authors. This showcases a diverse range of explored concepts and themes. A substantial number of authors, totaling 6555, have contributed to the body of work, with only 21 authors having the distinction of single authorship. This indicates a relatively collaborative field, with just 34 documents being single-authored.

Collaborative trends are further highlighted by the data, revealing an average of 6.12 co-authors per document and a notable international co-authorship percentage of 30.84%, underscoring the field’s global collaborative spirit. The majority of the scholarly output is in the form of articles (1058), followed by a smaller number of book chapters (10) and conference papers (11), along with one retracted paper and 26 reviews that contribute to the critical analysis and synthesis of the research area. The language distribution predominantly features English (1272 documents), signifying its use as the lingua franca of the scientific community, while also acknowledging contributions in Portuguese (4), Chinese (2), and Russian (2), reflecting the global and linguistic diversity within this research domain.

Overall, this bibliometric overview presents a dynamic and evolving field with a strong trajectory of growth and collaboration. It illustrates an active and diverse research community that engages in cross-border cooperation, contributing to a rich and impactful dialogue on medicinal plant extracts, their analysis, and biological activities.

3.1.2. Trends in Document Publications, Citations over Time, and Research Areas

Figure 2 illustrates the annual trends in both the number of documents published and the total citations received between 2014 and 2024. In this visualization, blue bars represent the total citations per year, while a pink line traces the number of documents published annually. The graph provides a clear view of how publication volume and citation impact have evolved over the past eleven years within the field.

The data reveal a steady rise in both the number of publications and citations from 2014 through 2023. This growth in publications remained consistent, with a notable increase starting in 2020. The trend in citations is even more pronounced, indicating that the research output not only expanded in volume but also gained significant recognition and influence over time.

In 2023, the research activity reached its peak, with 207 documents published and a total of 4484 citations, marking this year as particularly productive and impactful. This surge likely reflects key advancements or breakthroughs that attracted considerable attention and citations from the academic community. However, the observed decrease in both publications and citations in 2024 can be attributed to the timing of data collection, which occurred in April 2024. At that point, many studies were still in progress or pending publication and citation. Therefore, this decline should not be interpreted as a reduction in research activity but rather as an artifact of incomplete data for the year. It is expected that as the year continues, the number of publications and citations will more closely resemble the upward trends observed in previous years.

This analysis underscores the dynamic nature of research in the field, marked by a steady increase in scholarly output and a significant surge in citations, indicating growing interest and engagement. The preliminary data for 2024, while initially suggesting a decrease, is expected to adjust upwards, reaffirming the field’s continued expansion and relevance.

Figure 3 displays an h-index graph generated from Scopus data, providing a visual representation of the citation distribution and impact across a specific collection of documents. On the horizontal axis, documents are arranged in descending order based on their cumulative citation count, while the vertical axis shows the total number of citations each document has received. A 45-degree purple line is included in the graph, establishing a 1:1 ratio between the document sequence and its citation count, making it easier to visualize the citation impact relative to the total number of publications. The yellow star symbol marks the h-index, representing the point where "h" documents have received at least "h" citations, indicating significant citation influence within the dataset. Additionally, the blue line shows the actual citation count per document, illustrating that only a few documents have high citation counts while the majority have fewer citations. This distribution reflects a common trend in bibliometric data, where a small number of documents are highly influential [12]. The point where this 45-degree line intersects the citation curve, marked by a star, represents the h-index of the dataset. In this case, the h-index is 59, indicating that 59 documents have each garnered at least 59 citations. This demonstrates the significant scholarly impact of these publications, with the h-index serving as a strong indicator of both productivity and citation influence within the field. The graph also reveals an interesting pattern where one highly cited document stands out initially, followed by a gradual leveling off in citation counts across the remaining publications. This dynamic suggests that while a few top-performing articles have a disproportionate influence on the overall citation landscape, a broader collection of publications continues to make consistent contributions to the field’s development.

Overall, the h-index and citation trends provide valuable insights into the impact and thematic relevance of the research analyzed in this bibliometric study, highlighting the depth of scholarly engagement and recognition.

3.1.3. Research Areas

Figure 4 presents a pie chart detailing the distribution of scientific disciplines contributing to this study. Pharmacology, Toxicology, and Pharmaceutics dominate, accounting for 30% of the research. This highlights a primary focus on the health implications and safety profiles of medicinal plant extracts. Biochemistry, Genetics, and Molecular Biology follow with 18%, reflecting intensive investigations into the molecular composition and bioactive properties of plant compounds. Medicine contributes 14%, focusing on the clinical applications and therapeutic potential of these extracts.

Agricultural and Biological Sciences, along with Chemistry, each represent 11%, demonstrating considerable attention to the cultivation of medicinal plants and the chemical analysis of their extracts. Smaller contributions come from fields such as Chemical Engineering, Immunology and Microbiology, and Environmental Science, each accounting for 3%. Additionally, contributions from Multidisciplinary fields, Nursing, and other areas, although smaller, underscore the interdisciplinary nature of research on medicinal plant extracts.

3.2. Pioneering Research: Key Articles and Leading Journals in Medicinal Plant Extract Research

3.2.1. Ten Most Cited Journals

Understanding the most relevant journals in the field of phytochemistry analysis of medicinal plants is crucial for researchers and academics to identify where influential and cutting-edge research is published. Such an analysis helps pinpoint venues that not only disseminate high-impact research but also shape the field’s future directions [10]. The first ten journals listed in

Table 2. Top ten journals on Scopus for research on medicinal plant extract research.

Sources Journals	Articles	Total Documents in 2023	Total Citation	Journal Quality	h-Index	Publisher	SJR 2023
Journal of Ethnopharmacology	97	976	2295	Q1	231	Elsevier	0.94
Molecules	59	8149	1133	Q1	227	Multidisciplinary Digital Publishing Institute	0.74
Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology	32	991	400	Q2	54	A and V Publication	0.27
South African Journal of Botany	25	666	225	Q2	83	Elsevier	0.54
Natural Product Research	20	1187	170	Q2	71	Taylor and Francis	0.41
Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy	18	1846	482	Q1	149	Elsevier	1.49
Pharmacognosy Journal	18	227	117	Q3	35	EManuscript Technologies	0.28
BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine	17	NA	645	Q1	0	BioMed Central	0.741
Industrial Crops and Products	17	1644	406	Q1	173	Elsevier	0.91
Frontiers in Pharmacology	16	3463	149	Q1	154	Frontiers Media	1.07

show a varied landscape regarding article volume, total citations, and h-index, reflecting differing focuses and impacts. Journal of Ethnopharmacology leads with 97 articles, highlighting its specialized focus on ethnopharmacology, complemented by a robust h-index of 231 and 30,692 citations, indicating its authoritative position in the field. Molecules, with 59 articles and an impressive citation count of 184,529 alongside an h-index of 227, serves as a broad platform for multidisciplinary research, including phytochemical studies. Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy shows a remarkable impact with an h-index of 149 and 69,631 citations from only 18 articles, illustrating the significant influence of its publications. The Research Journal of Pharmacy and Technology, South African Journal of Botany, Natural Product Research, and Biomedicine and Pharmacotherapy present a mix of article counts and citation metrics that showcase their roles in advancing research on medicinal plants. These journals, with their focused yet impactful reach, underscore the diversity of research outputs and thematic richness, from regional studies to broader reviews and experimental research. This analysis highlights a dynamic interplay between the volume of research output and its impact, as measured by citations and h-indexes. High-performing journals in terms of citations and h-indexes often publish fewer, yet highly influential articles, demonstrating the quality over quantity paradigm in scholarly publications. The varied focus of these journals, from specific plant studies to broader biomedicine, enriches the field, offering multiple perspectives and fostering a comprehensive understanding of phytochemistry and its applications. Such insights are invaluable for researchers seeking to contribute to and draw from the cutting-edge of phytochemical research on medicinal plants.

3.2.2. Ten Most Cited Articles

Studying the most cited articles in the field of phytochemical analysis of medicinal plants through bibliometric analysis is particularly important because it highlights the key research themes and methodologies that have shaped current understanding and application in this area. Highly cited articles often indicate significant breakthroughs in understanding the chemical properties of medicinal plants and their potential health benefits. These articles serve as foundational texts that influence a wide range of subsequent research, from drug development to therapies and nutritional products. By identifying these influential works, researchers can discern which compounds or extraction techniques have proven most effective or which plants have drawn significant scientific interest, guiding future studies to build on solid empirical foundations. Additionally, such an analysis helps in mapping out the evolution of research trends, showing how interests and technologies have shifted over time [13,14]. This is particularly critical in fields like phytochemistry, where traditional knowledge is being integrated with modern scientific techniques. For funding bodies and academic institutions, understanding which areas of phytochemical research have garnered the most attention can inform funding decisions and policymaking, potentially leading to enhanced support for promising areas of study that could result in new therapeutic agents or health products. Furthermore, bibliometric analysis assists in evaluating the global impact and collaboration patterns in the research of medicinal plants, highlighting the interconnectedness of this research community and fostering international collaborations to tackle common challenges [15]. This specialized focus not only enriches the academic discourse but also directly contributes to advancements in healthcare and medicine. The most relevant articles sorted by citation in the field of medicinal plant phytochemistry are shown in

Table 3. Ten most cited articles.

	Article Title	Total Citations	Year of Publication	Journal	Authors
1	Resources and Biological Activities of Natural Polyphenols	622	2014	Nutrients	An-Na Li et al. [16]
2	Syzygium Aromaticum L. (Myrtaceae): Traditional Uses, Bioactive Chemical Constituents, Pharmacological and Toxicological Activities	314	2020	Biomolecules	Gaber El-Saber Batiha et al [17].
3	Phytochemical Evaluation, Antimicrobial Activity, and Determination of Bioactive Components from Leaves of Aegle Marmelos	283	2014	Research Biomed International	Farina Mujeeb et al. [18]
4	A Comprehensive Review on Phytochemistry, Pharmacology, and Flavonoid Biosynthesis of Scutellaria Baicalensis	194	2018	Pharmaceutical Biology	Zi-Long Wang et al. [19]
5	Natural Anti-Biofilm Agents: Strategies to Control Biofilm-Forming Pathogens	222	2020	Frontiers	Rojita Mishra et al. [20]
6	Isolation and Characterization of Bioactive Compounds from Plant Resources: The Role of Analysis in the Ethnopharmacological Approach	192	2014	Journal of Pharmaceutical and Biomedical Analysis	G. Brusotti et al. [21]
7	Platycodon Grandiflorus—An Ethnopharmacological, Phytochemical and Pharmacological Review	186	2015	Journalof Ethnopharmacology	Le Zhang et al. [22]
8	Natural Products and Their Derivatives Against Coronavirus: A Review of the Non-Clinical and Pre-Clinical Data	150	2020	Phytotherapy Research	Muhammad T. Islam et al. [23]
9	Functional Constituents of Wild and Cultivated Goji (L. Barbarum L.) Leaves: Phytochemical Characterization, Biological Profile, and Computational Studies	137	2017	Journal of Enzyme Inhibition and Medicinal Chemistry	Andrei Mocan et al. [24]
10	Rubus Fruticosus L.: Constituents, Biological Activities and Health Related Uses	151	2014	Molecules	Muhammad Zia-Ul-Haq et al. [25]

, highlighting significant scholarly contributions and the prevailing research interests in this domain. The article titled “Resources and Biological Activities of Natural Polyphenols”, published in 2014, leads with (622) citations, underscoring its profound impact on the research community. This study’s high citation count reflects its role in advancing the understanding of polyphenols’ roles in health and disease, a topic of considerable interest given the increasing demand for natural and health-promoting products. Following closely, the 2020 publication by Gaber El-Saber Batiha et al., “Syzygium aromaticum L. (Myrtaceae): Traditional Uses, Bioactive Chemical Constituents, Pharmacological and Toxicological Activities”, has accrued (314) citations, demonstrating rapid recognition within the scientific community. This review highlights the comprehensive utilization and potential health benefits of Syzygium aromaticum, popularly known as clove, indicating a growing research focus on integrating traditional herbal knowledge with modern pharmacology. “Phytochemical Evaluation, Antimicrobial Activity, and Determination of Bioactive Components from Leaves of Aegle marmelos” by Farina Mujeeb et al., published in 2014, also shows significant citation traction with (283) citations. This reflects an interest in the bioactive components of less commercially mainstream plants like Aegle marmelos, which are often overlooked in mainstream pharmacological research. The articles discussed herein not only highlight the rich diversity of research in natural product pharmacology but also suggest a robust interest in exploring and validating traditional medicine with scientific rigor. The performance of these articles also hints at the broader acceptance and integration of such studies into health-related applications, driven by a global trend towards natural and sustainable health solutions. Moreover, the journals in which these articles are published, like “Nutrients” and “Biomolecules”, known for their rigorous standards and high impact factors, undoubtedly contribute to the high visibility and citation rates of these publications. Such studies not only enrich the academic field but also often guide practical applications and policy formulations in the health and environmental sectors.

3.3. Bibliometric Mapping

3.3.1. Most Relevant Keywords

Table 4. Most highly co-occurring keywords.

	Keywords	Cluster Number	Links	Total Link Strength	Occurrences
1	Plant Extract	1	999	31,850	872
2	Nonhuman	1	998	30,009	774
3	Article	1	995	28,002	740
4	Unclassified Drug	5	999	27,263	697
5	Phytochemistry	1	994	21,852	600
6	Antioxidant Activity	3	999	21,786	553
7	Controlled Study	4	990	21,553	519
8	Flavonoid	1	998	21,117	524
9	Phytochemical	2	995	20,407	557
10	Plant Extracts	4	993	18,936	486

highlights the primary keywords driving research in phytochemical studies on medicinal plants, as determined through keyword co-occurrence analysis. The metrics for each keyword—number of links, total link strength, and occurrences—provide a comprehensive view of its significance within the research landscape. “Plant extract” stands out with the highest number of occurrences (872) and an impressive total link strength (31,850), emphasizing its central role in core methodologies and discussions within this field. Similarly, “Nonhuman”, with significant occurrences (774) and strong link strength (30,009), indicates substantial activity in preclinical testing involving animal models. The keyword “Article” shows substantial occurrences (740), acting as a proxy for the scholarly output and discourse generated in this domain.

Other keywords, such as “Phytochemistry” and “Antioxidant activity”, with occurrences of 600 and 553 respectively, highlight specific scientific interests—namely, the chemical analysis of plants and their potential health benefits. “Controlled study” and “Plant extracts” indicate methodological focuses and comparative analyses within the field. The terms “Flavonoid” and “Phytochemical”, with their significant link strengths and occurrences, reflect a strong interest in specific types of bioactive compounds.

Figure 5 presents a co-occurrence map of keywords in medicinal plant extract research from 2014 to 2024, showcasing key research topics and their interconnections over the past decade. The map employs different colors to represent distinct clusters, each grouping related terms and emphasizing the main focus areas within the field of medicinal plant extract research. A more detailed description of each cluster from the co-occurrence map is provided below, highlighting the primary research themes and trends identified over the ten-year period.

Cluster 1 (Red): Positioned at the center of the map, this cluster encompasses key terms such as “plant extract”, “phytochemistry”, and “phytochemical analysis”, highlighting foundational research in the extraction and chemical characterization of medicinal plants. It emphasizes the use of rigorous analytical methods to isolate and identify bioactive compounds, which are essential for understanding their potential health benefits and mechanisms of action.

Cluster 2 (Green): This cluster includes terms like “inflammatory activity”, “antidiabetic activity”, “ethnopharmacology”, and “phytotherapy”, reflecting the pharmacological evaluation of plant extracts. It emphasizes both traditional and modern therapeutic applications, particularly focusing on the treatment of chronic diseases such as diabetes and inflammation. This research integrates ethnobotanical knowledge with contemporary clinical practices.

Cluster 3 (Blue): Featuring terms such as “antioxidant”, “essential oil”, “hydro distillation”, “ferulic acid”, and “monoterpene”, this cluster focuses on studies related to the extraction of essential oils and their antioxidant properties. It underscores methods like hydro distillation to obtain essential oils rich in antioxidants and other therapeutic agents, exploring their health-promoting effects.

Cluster 4 (Yellow): This cluster contains terms like “animals”, “animal experiments”, “drug effects”, “metabolism”, “blood”, “liver”, “renal protection”, and “rate.” It centers on in vivo testing of plant extracts, examining their effects on animal health at systemic and organ-specific levels. This research is crucial for understanding the pharmacokinetics and protective effects of plant extracts on vital organs, contributing to the validation of their safety and efficacy in therapeutic applications.

Cluster 5 (Purple): Comprising terms such as “HeLa cell”, “drug screening line”, “assay drug screening”, and “embryo”, this cluster highlights the use of in vitro models and screening techniques to assess the pharmacological potential of plant extracts. It focuses on testing cytotoxicity and therapeutic potential in cellular models, critical steps in drug development and in understanding the cellular effects of plant extracts.

Phytochemical research in medicinal plant extracts has made notable progress in two key areas: advanced analytical techniques and sustainability practices. On one hand, cutting-edge technologies like chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry and advanced spectroscopy have greatly improved the precision with which scientists can analyze the chemical structures of plant compounds, allowing them to better understand their complex biological functions [26,27]. For example, a study on Curcuma longa (turmeric) used liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry (LC-MS) to isolate and identify curcuminoids, the bioactive compounds responsible for turmeric’s anti-inflammatory properties. This technique not only enabled researchers to map the molecular composition of these compounds but also to assess their pharmacological potential in treating chronic inflammatory diseases [28].

In addition, green extraction methods, such as the use of non-toxic solvents and energy-efficient processes, aim to minimize the environmental footprint of phytochemical research. For example, a study on Rosmarinus officinalis (rosemary) employed supercritical CO₂ extraction, a green technology that uses carbon dioxide as a solvent to extract essential oils. This method not only reduced the need for harmful chemical solvents but also lowered energy consumption, making it an eco-friendlier approach to obtaining bioactive compounds. The researchers were able to preserve the integrity of rosemary’s antioxidant properties while significantly reducing environmental impact [29].

These advancements in both analytical technologies and sustainable practices are shaping the future of phytochemical research, allowing scientists to isolate bioactive compounds more effectively, explore their therapeutic potential in medicine, and ensure that medicinal plants can continue to provide health benefits in an ecologically responsible manner [30].

3.3.2. Most Relevant Authors

Studying the most relevant authors in bibliometric analysis provides crucial insights into the development of any specialized field. It identifies key influencers, sets academic benchmarks, and uncovers emerging trends and methodological shifts. For institutions, such knowledge guides resource allocation and collaboration, enhancing research impact. Educators benefit by keeping curricula up to date with cutting-edge findings, while researchers ensure comprehensive literature reviews. Overall, this understanding fosters a collaborative, innovative, and well-informed academic community [31]. The top ten most relevant authors in this field are listed in

Table 5. Ten most relevant authors by number of documents.

Author	Documents in the Field	Total Documents	h-Index	Citations	Country	% International Collaboration
Zengin, Gökhan	34	885	61	17686	Turkey	92.50%
Mohamad Fawzi Mahomoodally	22	431	47	9732	Viet Nam	81.2%
Hammad Saleem	17	73	15	731	Pakistan	86.40%
Saeed Ahmad	15	171	18	1382	Pakistan	45.50%
Umair Khurshid	13	47	8	217	Pakistan	78.60%
Dinesh Kumar Patel	12	118	27	3111	India	17.50%
Kouadio Ibrahime Sinan	12	134	21	1656	Turkey	98.30%
Nafees Ahemad	11	100	27	1333	Malaysia	72%
Iqbal Ahmad	10	250	51	11240	India	64.40%
Marcello Locatelli	10	248	49	7297	Italy	71%

, and their co-authorship networks are visualized in Figure 6. This bibliometric assessment provides a detailed analysis of the contributions and collaborative relationships among key scholars in the domain of medicinal plant research, offering insights into their influence and partnerships within the field. Gökhan Zengin stands out with the most extensive number of publications in this field, a testament to his profound influence, as evidenced by an impressive h-index of (61) and a remarkable total of (17,686) citations. His extensive global collaboration, marked by a (92.5%) international cooperation rate, illustrates his significant impact on the worldwide scientific community. Mohamad Fawzi Mahomoodally, as detailed in the table, has authored (22) field-specific documents, contributing to a cumulative (431) scholarly works. With an h-index of (47) and (9732) citations, he demonstrates substantial influence, further supported by his extensive collaborative network shown in the visualization map. This network, primarily comprising high-impact researchers, and an international collaboration rate of (81.2%), underscores its role in fostering extensive global research partnerships. Hammad Saleem, noted for (17) specific documents within a total of (73), has an h-index of (15) and has accrued (731) citations. The visualization map depicts him as well-connected, especially within Pakistan, indicating robust national and significant international research networks (86.4% international collaboration). Umair Khurshid, with (13) documents from a total of (47) and an h-index of (8) yielding (217) citations, maintains a high international collaboration rate of (78.6%). His strategic placement in the network map near other prominent researchers highlights his pivotal collaborative ties, which enhance his scholarly impact beyond mere citation metrics. Nafees Ahemad’s contribution of (11) field-specific documents out of a total of (100), along with an h-index of (27) and (1333) citations, is noteworthy. His active role in the network, forming strategic connections with key nodes, signifies his involvement in crucial collaborative endeavors. His (72%) rate of international collaboration reflects his active engagement in global research initiatives.

In Figure 6, the co-authorship network visually maps out the collaborations between the most relevant authors in the field of phytochemistry and medicinal plant extract research. In the network map, each dot color represents a distinct cluster of co-authorship or research collaboration, with each color highlighting a unique group of authors who frequently work together. The connections between clusters illustrate cross-collaborations among authors from different networks. Node size corresponds to the number of publications by each author, while the lines connecting nodes represent co-authorship ties. The thickness of these lines indicates the strength of each collaborative relationship. From the image, Gökhan Zengin and Mohamad Fawzi Mahomoodally stand out as central figures in the red cluster, indicating their significant contribution and frequent collaborations with others in this group, such as Gunes Ak and Kouadio Ibrahime Sinan. The red cluster suggests a tightly knit network of researchers working closely on related topics. The green cluster highlights authors such as Nafees Ahemad and Hammad Saleem, who collaborate often within their group, with connections to international researchers like Marcello Locatelli and Khurshid Umair. The blue cluster shows Hanan Aati and Huma Rao as key contributors who collaborate extensively, indicating a network that spans various institutions or research topics. This network map provides a detailed understanding of how scholarly collaborations are structured in this field, emphasizing that research on medicinal plants is highly collaborative, often involving cross-border partnerships that enhance the impact and diversity of the scientific discourse.

This network and corresponding data depict a field characterized by vibrant collaboration and robust exchange of knowledge. Such collaborative endeavors, driven by the interdisciplinary nature of phytochemical studies, necessitate a diverse range of expertise to effectively explore the various bioactive components of medicinal plants. The distribution of publications, citations, and collaboration rates among these key authors reflects broader trends in the field, underscoring the importance of building strong research networks to amplify the quality and impact of scientific contributions. For emerging researchers, this analysis offers insights into potential mentors and collaborators, while funding agencies and academic institutions can identify leading contributors who are driving progress in the field. By highlighting both individual achievements and collective efforts, this bibliometric assessment underscores the collaborative foundation that is pushing the study of medicinal plants toward new discoveries and innovations.

3.4. Geographical Distribution

3.4.1. Country Scientific Production

Studying scientific production and collaboration between countries in the field of phytochemistry analysis of medicinal plants offers invaluable insights into how knowledge is shared and developed globally. Such analysis not only highlights the leading contributors but also showcases the dynamic interplay between nations in advancing research frontiers [32]. The data presented in

Table 6. Top ten countries with the highest number of publications.

	Country	Cluster	Links	Total Link Strength	Documents	Citation	Average Article Citations
1	India	1	35	144	343	3979	12.80
2	Pakistan	5	38	203	128	1704	11.30
3	Saudi Arabia	1	45	240	125	1431	7.80
4	China	4	30	94	110	3246	21.80
5	Turkey	2	29	129	76	925	8.30
6	Egypt	6	36	111	76	1223	19.60
7	Italy	2	34	131	72	1857	24.00
8	Malaysia	5	24	98	60	1093	15.40
9	United States	4	35	93	58	799	23.80
10	Mauritius	2	21	101	29	307	12.40

, which details the scholarly contributions of various countries to this field, ranks countries based on the number of published documents, total citations received, and average citations per article, highlighting the key players in research output and impact. India emerges as a significant contributor, with the highest number of documents (343) and a substantial total of (3979) citations, underscoring its central role in the phytochemical research landscape. Italy, while having a smaller output with (72) documents, stands out for its impressive average of (24) citations per article, suggesting that despite its lower volume of publications, the impact of its research is considerable. Pakistan and Egypt also demonstrate strong research activities with good citation counts, underlining their contributions to the field despite having fewer publications compared to India. Notably, Egypt’s average citations per article (19.60) highlight the substantial impact of its research in the global scientific community. China, with an exceptionally high average citation per article (21.80) and a robust total of citations (3246) from (110) documents, indicates that its research not only spans a broad output but also resonates deeply within the scientific community, influencing subsequent studies and advancements.

Figure 7 is a network map that displays the bibliometric relationships between countries, where the size of the nodes represents the volume of research output, and the thickness of the lines between nodes indicates the strength of collaborative ties. Each color in the network map represents a different cluster of countries that frequently collaborate on research. The placement and proximity of the nodes reveal clusters of countries that frequently collaborate or share similar research interests, with the map divided into several color-coded clusters. The red cluster, for example, includes countries like India, Pakistan, and South Korea, which are central and show high research output and strong collaborative ties. India stands out as a dominant contributor, with extensive collaborations across many nations. The green cluster comprises countries such as Italy, Turkey, and Mauritius, with Italy maintaining strong collaborative links with Turkey and Vietnam, indicating a shared focus on phytochemical studies. In the yellow cluster, China and Nigeria are key players, with China forming numerous collaborations both within and beyond its cluster. The blue cluster links countries like Iran, South Africa, and Brazil, with Iran having notable ties to South Africa and Brazil, although their collaborations are not as dense as those in the red cluster. Finally, the purple cluster features countries like Malaysia, Thailand, and Romania, which display regional collaboration, particularly among Southeast Asian nations. The visualization highlights the interconnected nature of scientific research in phytochemistry, with distinct regions contributing to and shaping global collaboration networks.

Figure 8 is a geographical representation of the research output by country. The blue color intensity on the map represents the level of research output or collaboration intensity for each country in this field. Darker blue shades indicate countries with higher research activity or stronger collaboration networks, while lighter blue shades signify lower levels of research involvement. Countries shown in gray have no recorded research output or collaboration in this field. This gradient allows for an easy visual comparison of research contributions by country. Countries like India and China are shown in the darkest shades, reflecting their significant contributions to scientific research, particularly in the area of phytochemistry. Other countries with darker shades include Brazil, South Korea, and several nations in Europe, such as Germany and Italy, demonstrating their substantial involvement in the research field. In contrast, countries with lighter shades, such as those in parts of Africa and South America, exhibit lower levels of research activity. This map provides a clear visual of global research production, emphasizing the leadership of certain nations in advancing scientific inquiry and collaboration.

3.4.2. Most Relevant Affiliation by Number

Analyzing the leading affiliations in a research domain is crucial for understanding the institutions driving scientific advancement. This analysis offers insights into institutional strengths, focus areas, and collaborative networks, which can guide strategic partnerships, funding decisions, and academic collaborations [33]. Figure 9 presents the top ten academic institutions ranked by the number of published articles on medicinal plant extract research. Each bar reflects an institution’s total research output in this field, emphasizing its contribution to advancing phytochemical studies and its broader global impact. King Saud University tops the list with (119) articles, showcasing its dominance and focus on this research area. This significant output positions the institution as a key player in advancing knowledge in phytochemistry and related studies, highlighting its role in fostering innovation within Saudi Arabia. The Islamia University of Bahawalpur follows with (93) articles, indicating a robust research presence in Pakistan. This output underlines the university’s commitment to developing expertise and contributing to global discussions on medicinal plant research. Other notable institutions include Selcuk University and Qassim University, which have produced (57) and (40) articles, respectively. These Turkish and Saudi Arabian institutions further demonstrate the growing interest and capabilities in the Middle East for conducting high-quality phytochemical research. The University of Mauritius and Tabriz University of Medical Sciences each have (37) articles, highlighting their focused contributions to this niche but important research area. These institutions, located in Mauritius and Iran, respectively, are indicative of the global spread and collaborative nature of phytochemistry research. University of Yaoundé I and Tribhuvan University, both with (31) articles, represent key academic institutions in Cameroon and Nepal, respectively. Their contributions underscore the importance of phytochemistry research in addressing local and regional health challenges. The University of Malakand and Quaid-i-Azam University, each contributing (30) articles, showcase the strong focus on phytochemical studies in Pakistan, further emphasizing the country’s emerging role in this scientific field.

In interpreting these results, it is evident that institutions from a diverse set of countries are contributing significantly to phytochemical research. The high output from Middle Eastern institutions, in particular, showcases the region’s growing investment in advancing medicinal plant research, reflecting a broader global trend toward exploring natural products for health and medicinal applications, driven by increased recognition of their potential benefits. The concentration of research output in specific institutions also highlights centers of excellence and specialization, where expertise and resources are pooled to drive innovation. These hubs play a critical role in setting research agendas and fostering collaborations that propel the field forward. Overall, this analysis reveals a dynamic and diverse landscape in phytochemistry research, with institutions from various countries leading the way in advancing scientific understanding and developing new applications for medicinal plants.

4. Discussion

The findings reveal significant developments in both the volume and impact of publications, along with key insights into emerging subfields, collaborative networks, and the influence of specific countries and institutions. By analyzing the co-occurrence of keywords and visualizing global collaboration, this research highlights the shifting landscape of phytochemical research and its potential to inform future studies, clinical applications, and policymaking. One of the key insights from this analysis is the diversification of research within the field of medicinal plants. The emergence of distinct subfields, such as antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory properties, and phytochemical analysis, indicates that researchers are increasingly focusing on specific therapeutic uses of plant extracts. This diversification underscores the importance of targeted research efforts that address specific health challenges, such as chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer, where plant-based therapies have shown potential [34]. As the data reveal, these subfields are expanding rapidly, particularly in countries with rich ethnopharmacological traditions such as India and China. These nations have leveraged their historical knowledge to explore modern applications of medicinal plants, often leading global research output in this domain [35].

Another significant observation from the bibliometric analysis is the high level of international collaboration in phytochemical research. Countries like India, China, and Italy form dense networks of collaboration, frequently co-authoring studies and sharing research resources. This interconnectedness not only accelerates knowledge dissemination but also fosters cross-disciplinary innovation, where research on plant extraction methods, bioactive compounds, and their pharmacological effects is enhanced by the collaboration of experts across different regions and disciplines. Furthermore, strong collaborative ties between countries are supported by the growth of shared technologies, such as chromatography and mass spectrometry, which facilitate deeper exploration of plant-derived compounds. This global partnership is crucial for the continued advancement of the field, as it allows researchers to access a broader range of plant species and traditional knowledge [13,36].

For clinicians, the results of this study highlight the potential for plant-based therapies to become more widely integrated into mainstream healthcare. The rising focus on bioactive compounds with demonstrated therapeutic effects suggests that plant extracts could play a key role in complementary and integrative medicine, offering natural alternatives to synthetic drugs. The identification of specific plant compounds that exhibit anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and anticancer properties could directly impact clinical practices, providing new treatment options for diseases that are resistant to conventional therapies. Moreover, the increasing body of research on safety and efficacy, particularly through in vivo studies in animal models, provides a foundation for the potential clinical trials of plant-based medicines [37,38].

From a policy-making perspective, the geographic disparity in research output, as highlighted in Figure 6, emphasizes the need for strategic investment in underrepresented regions. While countries like India and China have dominated research output, regions with rich biodiversity, such as parts of Africa and South America, have not fully capitalized on their potential in medicinal plant research. By providing funding and encouraging international partnerships, policymakers can foster sustainable research practices that promote the discovery of new medicinal plants and contribute to local economies. The increasing focus on green extraction technologies further supports the integration of sustainability into the phytopharmaceutical industry, aligning research objectives with global environmental goals [39].

Moreover, the trend in phytochemical extraction research is increasingly shifting towards the exploration of more efficient, eco-friendly, and scalable techniques. These advanced methods aim not only to maximize the yield and purity of bioactive compounds but also to ensure the sustainability of the extraction process. Techniques such as supercritical fluid extraction (SFE), microwave-assisted extraction (MAE), and ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) are leading this innovation, offering advantages like reduced solvent usage, faster processing times, and better preservation of thermosensitive compounds. These methods are particularly significant in the extraction of phenolic compounds and flavonoids, which have higher antioxidant activity and are crucial in development [40].

Acknowledging Limitations: While this study provides valuable insights into global trends in medicinal plant extract research, it is essential to acknowledge the inherent limitations of bibliometric analysis. One of the primary concerns is the restricted scope of the databases used for the analysis. In this case, only publications indexed in Scopus were considered, which may have excluded relevant studies available in other major databases like Web of Science, PubMed, or Google Scholar. Each of these databases offers unique strengths, such as Web of Science’s comprehensive coverage of high-impact journals and PubMed’s strong focus on medical and biological sciences. Therefore, reliance on a single database may result in an incomplete representation of the field, particularly if studies published in non-indexed or lesser-known journals are not included. Additionally, non-English language publications might have been overlooked, potentially limiting the global diversity of the literature included in the analysis. This language bias may skew the results toward regions where English-language publications dominate, thus reducing the visibility of important research produced in non-English-speaking countries [41].

5. Conclusions

The increasing importance of research on medicinal plants has been underscored, especially due to their potential in drug discovery and therapeutic applications. The rising number of publications focusing on the anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties of plant extracts highlight the scientific community’s growing interest in this field. The integration of advanced analytical techniques such as chromatography and spectroscopy has significantly enhanced the identification and quantification of bioactive molecules, leading to major advancements. The role of genomic and proteomic technologies has also been highlighted, particularly in authenticating medicinal plants and exploring the genetic basis of phytochemical biosynthesis. Moreover, researchers have noted a growing trend toward using plant extracts to treat chronic and severe diseases such as diabetes, cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. The bibliometric analysis revealed significant international collaboration and a concentration of research in high-quality journals, demonstrating the scientific impact of work on medicinal plant extracts. The most frequent keywords indicate an increased interest in specific aspects of phytotherapy, such as antioxidant activity and flavonoid pharmacology. In conclusion, this article shows that the field of medicinal plant extracts is expanding, supported by technological advancements and increasing international collaboration. The research is oriented toward practical health applications, focusing on natural and sustainable solutions. Publications in this field are expected to continue growing, particularly as new phytocompounds and their therapeutic applications are discovered and characterized. This bibliometric study serves as a valuable resource for researchers, clinicians, and policymakers, enabling them to understand current trends and plan future research in phytotherapy.