Iridology is a form of reflexology – a study of how signs of health of the body and its organs are reflected in the eye. Naturopathic practitioners analyse the iris for indications of genetic and functional weakness throughout the body. Fibre patterns, changes in colour and abnormal markings give indications of the body’s tissue condition and the patient’s psycho-emotional behavioural patterns.

How Does Iridology Work?

Iridology uses "eye maps" or charts showing parts and qualities of the eye that reveal information about the body’s condition. Position is noted in the iris as if on the face of a clock and then referred to a chart.

The eyes contain thousands of nerve fibres, which are direct extensions of the nervous system from the brain. Eyes start forming early in the foetus, with muscles that dilate and contract the pupils being derived from nerve tissue in the developing embryo. However, nobody really knows how iris colour and patterns are formed. They may be purely genetic markings, but other theories suggest an anatomical reflex connection.

Coupled with other diagnostic techniques such as good case history taking tongue and nail analysis, Iris examinations can give an overall profile of a patient’s health care needs. The eye acts as an early warning system for constitutional weakness. Congenital lesions, such as gray, ovoid, or spindle shapes in the iris show tendencies towards weaknesses inherited form the parents.

Naturopaths study the shape, colour, and qualities of the iris tissue, as well as structural patterns, and flecks of pigment. The entire iris bioarchitecture reflects an individual’s constitutional type.

The Eyes Have It

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