Correlation between the antibacterial activity and the composition of extracts derived from various Spanish Cistus species

► Cistus extracts exhibit antimicrobial activity against E. coli and S. aureus. ► C. salviifolius phenolic fraction exhibits bacteriostatic and bactericidal activity. ► Galloylated flavanols, ellagitannins and flavonols may be the responsible compounds. ► C. salviifolius extracts may be antimicrobial ingredients for hygiene or cosmetics. ► Potential synergistic effects among Cistus polyphenols may deserve further studies.