Research groups and their scientific literature on medicinal plants: an exploratory study in the state of Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

The great potential of Brazilian biodiversity encourages the development of innovative products. In this arena, international instruments and national policies promote the importance of traditional medicine. However, few studies discuss the agricultural production of medicinal plants. This study aims to understand the current landscape on medicinal plants research in the Rio de Janeiro state, based on research groups reported on CNPq Research Groups Directory. The work also seeks scientific production of these research groups, especially on the issue of medicinal plants agricultural production. The results show 111 research groups in a period of 34 years (1977 to 2010), indicating a tendency of continuous and strong growth. Research groups are situated in 16 research and educational institutions, mostly governmental organizations. Research groups are predominantly from Biological Sciences and Exact and Earth Sciences, and published 656 scientific articles about medicinal plants. Only 54 articles dealt with agricultural production of medicinal plants. Our data demonstrate that there is a significant number of research groups in Rio de Janeiro state that focus on the subject, in all areas of knowledge. It shows that medicinal plants theme has aroused great interest in the scientific community. However, the small number of scientific articles may compromise the sector’s sustainability. In conclusion, Rio de Janeiro state shows great potential in the construction of knowledge and training of technical and scientific human resources, promoting Medicinal Plants National Policy.