Word Study
cowhage
CIDE DICTIONARY
cowhage, n. [Cf. Hind. kaw, ko.].
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. [1913 Webster]
For further exploring for "cowhage" in Webster Dictionary Online