Kappakertymien

Kappakertymien refers to the accumulation of kappage, a substance derived from the bark of the *Ricinodendron rautanenii* tree, also known as the silver leaf, moss, or wild almond. This tree is native to the drier regions of southern Africa, including Botswana, Namibia, and South Africa. Kappage is a thick, latex-like sap that exudes from wounds in the bark. Historically, indigenous communities have utilized kappage for various purposes, including its adhesive properties and as a traditional medicine.

The accumulation of kappage, or kappakertymien, occurs naturally as the tree responds to damage or environmental stress. It forms a protective layer over the affected areas. In some instances, this accumulation can become quite substantial, forming hardened masses of varying sizes. While the substance itself has traditional uses, the process of kappakertymien is primarily a biological phenomenon of the *Ricinodendron rautanenii* tree. Research into the chemical composition of kappage has identified several compounds, but its economic or widespread industrial use remains limited. The term itself is not widely recognized in scientific literature outside of specific regional contexts related to ethno-botany or forestry in southern Africa.