physiological

Physiological describes anything related to physiology, the science that studies the functions and activities of living organisms and their parts. It encompasses how organs, tissues, cells, and biochemical processes work under normal conditions to sustain life. Physiological processes include metabolism, respiration, circulation, reproduction, thermoregulation, and neural signaling. In humans, physiological states are measured by indicators such as heart rate, blood pressure, oxygen saturation, and hormonal levels.

In research and medicine, physiological knowledge informs the understanding of normal function and the diagnosis of disease. The term is used to distinguish normal, functional processes from pathological conditions (pathophysiology). Experimental physiology examines how systems respond to stimuli or stress, while clinical physiology applies these principles to patient care, such as interpreting ECGs or assessing renal function. Plant physiology studies processes like photosynthesis, transpiration, and nutrient transport.

Spelling: physiological is the standard adjective; physiologic is sometimes used as a variant, especially in compound terms (physiologic saline). The word derives from Greek physis (“nature”) and logos (“study”).