Study of effects of externally applied energy gradients (hot or cold) to living cells or biological organisms. Background: cells are isothermic (meaning single temperature) systems which depend on chemical reactions to release energy and perform work. This is the opposite of internal combustion and steam engines which use heat and pressure to perform mechanical work. (origin: combining form thermal + therapeutics)
A modern scientist of thermaneutics may be studying infrared therapy, cryogenics, or the impact of heat induced sweat on inflammatory disorders.
by Hearthsider July 31, 2009