Phytochemical profile of Rosmarinus officinalis and Salvia officinalis extracts and correlation to their antioxidant and anti-proliferative activity

► The anti-proliferative activity of rosemary and sage extracts was monitored. ► Cytotoxic and antioxidant activity were correlated to phytochemical composition. ► Both extracts exerted direct cytocydal effect via up-regulation of NO and TNF-α. ► Rosemary extract developed more pronounced cytotoxic and immunomodyfying activity. ► The primary cytotoxic components were determined.