Vegetos
(An International Journal of Plant Research & Biotechnology)
Bibliometric analysis of chemometric research applied to phytomedicine: ensuring quality control of medicinal plants
*Article not assigned to an issue yet
Benomar Abdelhafid, Salime Ghita Meknassi, Mabrouki Meryem, Fekrouni Mohamed, Chahboune Rajae, Bouatia Mustapha
Research Articles | Published: 15 July, 2025
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Keywords: Chemometric methods, Quality control, Medicinal plants, Phytomedicine, Spectroscopic analysis, Chromatography
Abstract
Phytomedicine, a vital source of new therapies, is gaining attention for its potential in developing effective and safe drugs. However, ensuring the quality of medicinal plants remains a significant challenge, necessitating advanced approaches like chemometrics. This study conducted a bibliometric analysis on the application of chemometric methods to the quality control of medicinal plants and phytomedicines, aiming to identify publication trends, key topics, collaborations, and future opportunities. Bibliometric data were collected from the PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science databases, covering the period from 1994 to 2024. 991 articles were included in the analysis using Bibliometrix software. Results indicate a significant rise in publications since 2003, driven by major contributor including China, Sweden, Japan, Korea and Netherlands, with major international collaborations involving Italy, the United States, and South Africa. Research primarily focuses on chemometrics, spectroscopic analysis, chromatography, and quality control of bioactive compounds and plant protection products. Persistent challenges include the absence of harmonized global regulations and risks of product falsification. This study offers a comprehensive overview of current trends in phytomedicine research, emphasizing the pivotal role of ethnopharmacology and chemometric methods in identifying new therapeutic agents. Future directions include fostering stronger international collaborations, particularly with leading nations like China, and adopting advanced technologies such as next-generation sequencing and DNA barcoding to enhance the safety, efficacy, and quality of herbal medicines.
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Author Information
Laboratory of Life and Health Science, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Abdelmalek Essaadi University, Tanger, Morocco