Cowhage \Cow"hage\ (kou"h[asl]j), n. [Cf. Hind. kaw[=a]nch,
ko[=a]nch.] (Bot.)
A leguminous climbing plant of the genus {Mucuna}, having
crooked pods covered with sharp hairs, which stick to the
fingers, causing intolerable itching. The spicul[ae] are
sometimes used in medicine as a mechanical vermifuge.
[Written also {couhage}, {cowage}, and {cowitch}.]
[1913 Webster]