Characterisation of the Chemical Composition, Antibacterial Activity and Molecular Interactions of <i>Salvia officinalis</i> L. and <i>Lavandula x intermedia</i> Essential Oils Obtained Over 3 Years

ABSTRACT The aim of this study was to characterise the chemical composition of Salvia officinalis L. and Lavandula x intermedia essential oils collected between 2022 and 2024 using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS), and to investigate their antibacterial activity, pharmacokinetic profiles, endocrine‐disrupting potential and molecular binding interactions. The results revealed significant annual variations, with S. officinalis oils predominantly containing ketones such as (+)‐2‐bornanone and thujone, whereas L. x intermedia oils were primarily composed of linalool and linalyl acetate. Both essential oils exhibited broad‐spectrum antimicrobial activity against Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium , while variable susceptibilities were observed in Listeria monocytogenes and Pseudomonas aeruginosa , which correlated with changes in chemical profiles. ADMET predictions indicated favourable pharmacokinetic properties, including high gastrointestinal absorption and blood–brain barrier permeability; however, some compounds demonstrated selective inhibition potential towards cytochrome P450 enzymes. Endocrine disruption assessments suggested that viridiflorol may exert potential disruptive effects via androgen, glucocorticoid and thyroid receptors. Molecular docking studies further highlighted that viridiflorol and epimanool exhibit strong binding affinities and extensive interaction networks with target proteins, underscoring their promise as bioactive candidates. These integrated findings contribute to a better understanding of the dynamic phytochemical profiles of these essential oils and their implications for antimicrobial applications and drug development.