Rich in polyphenols-phenolic compounds with antioxidant activity which exert a number of powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties against pathogens that may cause serious human health problems. Several studies show that cistus holds  activity against Streptococcus mucans, Staphylococcus aureus and different Candida species.

Also it has strong antiviral properties. It prevents viral infection by targeting viral envelope proteins. Viral envelope proteins are proteins embedded in the capsule of a virus, which is the shell-like layer that encapsulates the viral DNA or RNA. The viral DNA and RNA are the genetic material that a virus uses to replicate once it is in a host .

Cistus is also excellent in breaking down biofilms, especially in the mouth. Biofilm is a slimy layer of bacteria that can form on bodily surfaces, may be a major contributor to the development and persistence of chronic disease.

Check here for references and info:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4712263/

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK21523/

http://www.academicjournals.org/article/article1380529426_Hudson.pdf

https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1878535220301970

https://journals.viamedica.pl/cardiology_journal/article/view/62653