%cowhage%

n. [ Cf. Hind. kawānch, koānch. ] (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 spiculæ are sometimes used in medicine as a mechanical vermifuge. [ Written also couhage, cowage, and cowitch. ] [ 1913 Webster ]