Evolution of Triphala research over 2 decades: A comprehensive bibliometric analysis of trends, hotspots, and international collaboration.

BACKGROUND: Triphala, a traditional Ayurvedic formulation, has garnered significant research interest for its diverse therapeutic potential. However, a comprehensive analysis of its research landscape remains limited. OBJECTIVE: To conduct a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of Triphala research from 2000 to 2024, examining publication trends, research hotspots, and evolving research themes. METHODS: Publications related to Triphala were retrieved from the Web of Science core collection database (2000-2024). Bibliometric analysis utilized CiteSpace and VOSviewer to analyze publication trends, collaboration networks, and research hotspots. Visualization tools mapped the temporal evolution of research themes and collaboration patterns. RESULTS: The analysis of 417 publications unveiled a complex landscape of research development, identifying 5 major research themes that progressively evolved from 2006 to 2024, including apoptosis, radiation effects, oxidative stress, oral therapeutics, and molecular docking studies. Each theme demonstrated varying research strengths, with oral therapeutics showing the highest research intensity at strength = 3.1. Geographically, the research was predominantly concentrated in India, which produced 271 publications, significantly outpacing the United States (34 publications) and China (33 publications). The research was primarily disseminated through specialized journals, with the International Journal of Ayurvedic Medicine, Journal of Ayurveda and Integrative Medicine, and Indian Journal of Traditional Knowledge emerging as the most influential publication platforms. Key research institutions, including the Bhabha Atomic Research Centre, Chiang Mai University, and Mahidol University, played pivotal roles in advancing Triphala research. CONCLUSION: This bibliometric analysis demonstrates the progressive evolution of Triphala research from traditional applications to sophisticated scientific investigations. The study reveals a significant transformation in research focus, transitioning from basic mechanistic studies to advanced molecular investigations and clinical applications, particularly in oral health.