Exploring the global mosaic of medicinal plant databases: unveiling nature’s pharmacopoeia

Medicinal plants have long served as an important asset in the treatment of diseases. Recent developments in computer science have enabled the rise of specialized databases cataloging medicinal plant knowledge. However, a systematic comparison of available region-specific medicinal plant databases is lacking. This review summarizes globally available medicinal plant databases that focus on specific geographical regions, aiming to inspire and guide people from specialists to the general public toward fostering innovation and making informed decisions. Through a systematic search of literature and digital resources, 81 regional medicinal plant databases established or updated between 2013 and 2025 were identified. From this pool, 40 core platforms were subjected to detailed statistical characterization regarding their data categories and volume. Our analysis reveals a geographical concentration in Asia (48.1%), dominated by China and India, alongside a notable proliferation of universal databases with a global scope. These databases facilitate critical applications in drug discovery, quality control, biodiversity conservation, and policy-making. By identifying current research gaps and emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary standardization, this review serves as a strategic roadmap for bridging traditional wisdom with modern therapeutic innovation.