GLOBAL SCIENTIFIC COLLABORATION IN ELAEAGNUS ANGUSTIFOLIA L. RESEARCH: AN ANALYSIS OF PUBLICATION PATTERNS AND KEY THEMES

In the context of increasing the global interest in Elaeagnus angustifolia L., this study represents the first in-depth scientometric and bibliometric analysis covering the period 2013-2023. The article discusses the evolution of research on this species, using data extracted from the Web of Science and Scopus databases, where we have analyzed 203 and respectively 188 articles. The applied methodology involves quantitative and qualitative analyzes of publications, citations, and international collaborations, highlighting the main areas of interest and the dynamics of collaboration. The results show a significant focus of research in the fields of ecology, pharmacology, and agriculture, while highlighting the growing interest in the plant's bioactive properties. The findings point out promising future research directions, such as the potential of phytoremediation and its use in alternative medicine, although the study acknowledges its limitations, including incomplete coverage of non-English literature. The analysis revealed a clear need to explore the complex interactions between Elaeagnus angustifolia L. and other species in its native and introduced ecosystems. Understanding these interactions can contribute to the development of strategies for conservation and sustainable use, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary studies to promote effective ecological management and maximizing the species' ecological and pharmacological benefits.