Global research trends on the anticancer potential of Ficus spp.: a bibliometric analysis

Abstract Although numerous studies have isolated anticancer compounds from Ficus spp., there are still key gaps that hinder clinical translation. This study aimed to provide a quantitative overview of compounds derived from Ficus spp., identify leading contributors, evaluate collaboration networks, and highlight research gaps and future directions. A bibliometric analysis was conducted using the Scopus® database (from inception to mid-2025). Data on publication and citation trends, as well as leading countries, institutions, authors, and journals, were analyzed. Socioeconomic indicators were obtained from the IMF and World Bank databases. Statistical analysis was performed using Microsoft® Excel, and bibliometric networks were visualized using VOSviewer (v1.6.20). A total of 316 original and review articles were included, showing a slow increase in publications from the 2010s onward. Most studies originated from India, China, and Saudi Arabia, while leading authors were affiliated with institutions in Indonesia, Italy, and Belgium. Frequently used keywords included “human”, “article”, and “plant extract”. Highly cited articles indicate a gradual shift toward applied and commercial research interests. Overall, the findings demonstrate growing global interest in the anticancer potential of Ficus spp., alongside persistent translational limitations. Research remains largely focused on crude extract screening and in vitro assays, with limited progression to in vivo and clinical studies. Future work should emphasize standardized extraction protocols, isolation and characterization of bioactive compounds, mechanistic and toxicity studies, and translational pharmacological validation to support the development of clinically relevant Ficus -derived anticancer agents.