There is nothing scientific about reciting criptic passages while peeling a tree, or talking to an ant.
The Issur of Avoda Zara is worshiping, not harnessing. The Rambam describes Kishuf as being based on Avoda Zara ideology. However, Kishuf is not Yehareg ve’al Yavor. The term Avoda Zara is thrown about so easily, while it isn’t applied when it should be. How about belief in evolution being Chilul Shabbos?
We do not find Kishuf being applied to healing, and the Rashba felt it is Muttar. The Rambam held that although Kemeyos should really be Assur it is allowed for a sick person, in order to sooth him.