cowhage Meaning, Definition & Usage

Cow"hage noun

Etymology

Cf. Hind. kawnch, konch.

Definitions

1. (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.