Global Trends in Medicinal and Aromatic Plants Research from 2015 to 2024: A Scientometric Analysis

This scientometric study explores a decade (2015–2024) of Medicinal and Aromatic Plants research using the Web of Science database. The dataset was extracted on 25 June 2025 using a topic search (TS) strategy, yielding 101,218 records. Following the application of an English-language filter, 99,994 publications were retained for analysis. Quantitative assessment was conducted using MS Excel, while scientific knowledge structures and research trends were visualized through knowledge mapping techniques implemented in VOSviewer and Biblioshiny. The findings indicate a significant quantitative growth in MAPs research, reaching its highest point in 2022, with articles and reviews comprising over 96% of publications. China led globally, contributing 25.71% of publications and 29.79% of citations, followed by India and the United States. While China led in the number of publications, nations such as the United States and England demonstrated a higher relative citation impact (RCI), indicating greater research influence. Top contributors included Institutions Chinese Academy of Sciences and the University of California System; authors Gokhan Zengin and Javad Sharifi-Rad, while the Journal of Ethnopharmacology and Molecules dominated dissemination, with publishers Elsevier, MDPI, and Springer Nature handling nearly 50% of output. Thematically, the focus shifted from traditional phytochemistry and bioactivity to emerging interdisciplinary subjects like nanotechnology, drug delivery systems, and molecular biology. China’s NSFC was found to be the most prominent financial supporter, backing over 12,800 publications, followed by agencies in Brazil and the United States. Despite rapid growth and diversification, the field needs improved research quality and a stronger agronomic and biotechnological focus to fully realize its global potential. This study’s findings provide a comprehensive and up-to-date global overview of MAPs research, offering valuable insights to support evidence-based decision-making, identify research priorities, guide strategic planning, and inform policy formulation as well as practical applications within the MAPs sector.