Analysis of phytochemical profiles of different extracts of Salvia (S. sclarea, S. huberi, S. fruticosa and S. aethiopis) by HPLC-PDA, evaluation of their antioxidant capacity and antimicrobial activity.

The growing interest in natural and holistic approaches has increased research on medicinal plants, including Salvia species, known for their distinctive aroma, bioactive compounds, and health benefits. This study evaluated the phytochemical composition, antioxidant activity, and antimicrobial potential of water and ethanol extracts from S. sclarea, S. huberi, S. fruticosa, and S. aethiopis. Chemometric methods, including Pearson correlation, principal component analysis, and hierarchical clustering, were used to analyze experimental correlations. High-performance liquid chromatography-photodiode array identified protocatechuic acid as the dominant phenolic compound. S. huberi ethanol extract exhibited the highest antioxidant activity (1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl 50% inhibitory concentration [IC50]: 0.25 mg/mL, Iron-chelating IC50: 3.05 mg/mL), while S. sclarea had the highest total phenolic content (812.30 mg GAE/g). Antimicrobial activity was observed in all extracts. These findings highlight that S. huberi has strong antioxidant potential. Further studies should explore the mechanisms of action and potential medical applications of Salvia species.