Characterization, biological activity and application trends of Ilex guayusa Loes: A systematic literature review and bibliometric analysis

Guayusa (Ilex guayusa Loes), a species native to the Amazon, is used to prepare beverages with a variety of bioactive compounds that perform biological activities beneficial to human health. The objective of this work was to carry out a bibliometric survey using the Web of Science © (WoS) and Scopus databases to determine the scope of research conducted to date on the Ilex guayusa plant. To complement this information, this study presents a review of the literature on the profile of bioactive compounds identified, the proven health benefits, and potential applications of I. guayusa. The article used a combination of bibliometric analysis and the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol to evaluate and synthesize the literature on I. guayusa. The VOSviewer software and Bibliometrix-R were used to visualize the bibliometric analysis through network maps. The bibliometric analysis revealed that the species has not yet been extensively studied; only 60 articles (obtained without filtering years) have been published, mainly in food science and technology. The review also revealed that I. guayusa leaves contain significant concentrations of polyphenols, caffeine, carotenoids, and other bioactive compounds with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and potentially neuroprotective properties. Furthermore, these compounds highlight the plant's promising applications in functional foods, nutraceuticals, and pharmaceuticals. The results provide valuable information for future research trends; furthermore, they highlight opportunities to build research partnerships that strengthen regional linkages and promote the utilization of native Amazonian plants globally.