Extracts obtained from many plants have recently gained popularity and
scientific interest for their antibacterial, antifungal and antioxidant activity. Many
results have been reported on the antimicrobial properties of plant extracts containing
essential oils and different classes of phenolic compounds. In this chapter, we will
discuss the traditional usage and the biological and pharmacological properties of
various Cistus species, with particular emphasis on Cistus species growing in Sardinia.
Cistaceae family is widespread in the Mediterranean region with several species, and it
is known as a traditional natural remedy. Cistus genus grows in Sardinia with
populations of C.monspeliensis, C.salvifolius, C. albidus and C. creticus subspecies:
C.creticus subsp. creticus, C.creticus subsp. corsicus, and C.creticus subsp.
eriocephalus. Despite being widespread, only a few phytochemical research has been
reported for Cistus species growing in Sardinia. Moreover, C.creticus subsp.
eriocephalus (Viv) Greuter & Burdet growing in Sardinia is characterized by an
important polymorphism due to hybridization and occurrence of various ecotypes
based on intermediate morphological characters. The recent studies have shown that
the extracts of Cistus species may be used as therapeutic agents in a wide range of
human diseases. The use of plant extracts for controlling postharvest fungal pathogens
can enhance healthy fruit production. Further knowledge regarding the bioactivity of
Sardinian Cistus species will be useful to verify their potential as profitable sources of
functional ingredients in applications, such as food preservation, cosmetic, hygiene or
medical device
Keywords: Antifungal activities, Antioxidant activities, C. albidus, Cistaceae, C.creticus subsp. creticus, C.creticus subsp. corsicus, C.creticus subsp. eriocephalus, C.monspeliensis, C.salvifolius, Essential oil, Microbiological activities, Polyphenols, Sardinia, Taxonomy.
