On the eastern slopes of Qornet el Sawda — the highest peak in Lebanon and the Levant — lies a vast forest of juniper trees (Juniperus excelsa, known locally as lazzab). These hardy trees thrive in the harsh conditions above 2,000 meters, where Lebanon’s iconic cedar trees can no longer grow.
Junipers are long-lived, reaching maturity between 50 and 60 years of age. Traditionally, their sap was used to produce tar, a natural remedy for treating skin conditions in livestock and a powerful repellent against insects and reptiles. The tree’s berries are well-known for their antioxidant properties and are used therapeutically to combat certain fungal infections.
The Hermel juniper forest is a unique natural heritage site — a resilient high-altitude ecosystem that reflects both Lebanon’s biodiversity and the age-old connection between rural traditions and the land.
