Iridology

Iridology's first documented reference dates back to the late 17th century and was referred to as iris analysis. In his book 'Chiromatica Medica', physician Phillipus Meyens proposed the eye's reflexes were an indication to the health of other areas of the body. By the 19th century, Meyens work had developed into what is known as iridology.

The word 'iridology' was first used by Hungarian physician Ignatz von Peczley. In 1881, Peczley wrote a study of the eye and how the iris and pupil in particular could be analysed to show the health of the body as a whole. His fascination with the subject is said to stem from a childhood experience with an owl that had broken its leg. Peczley noted that a dark line appeared in the owl's eye shortly after the incident and was replaced with a broken white line as the leg healed.

By the 1950s, American chiropractor Bernard Jensen pioneered a chart that mapped the iris. Jensen's iridology chart showed six rings or zones of the eye that corresponded to other parts of the body. Today, iridology is also referred to as ophthalmic somatology, iris analysis or iris diagnosis.

Iridology examines the iris of the eye to determine a person's health. Visible in the iris are markings, structures, colours and patterns that can indicate disease or disorders present in other parts of the body. As the eye has thousands of nerve endings that link throughout the body, it receives impulses from the organs and bodily systems and can therefore highlight any problems.

The iridologist analyses the iris looking for the presence of toxins, imbalances and deficiencies. As the cell structure in other parts of the body becomes disturbed by disease or disorder, cell structure in the iris reflects this change. Darkening in the pattern of the iris indicates a problem with it lightening as healing takes place.

Iridology can determine the stage at which an imbalance has reached i.e. acute, chronic or degenerative. Iridology also provides information on a person's constitution and if they are susceptible to particular health issues.

Be prepared - It is advisable to choose an iridologist who is a member of, or is accredited by, an association or professional body. This ensures your iridology session is carried out in a suitable environment and by someone who has received formal training and ongoing development. Members are also bound to a code of ethics and practice. The main iridology organisations are listed at the foot of this article.

It is important to remember that an iridologist may utilise other therapies. Iridology is an analytical and diagnostic tool and not a treatment or therapy. Many iridologists are trained in other therapies such as homeopathy, naturopathy, nutrition and kinesiology. If so, check that your practitioner has suitable training and qualifications.

What to expect - During your first appointment, your iridologist will ask questions about your general health, lifestyle, diet and medical history. They will then begin a physical analysis of the eye as a whole followed by a closer examination. The iridologist will use an 'iriscope' to focus on different areas of the eye. The iriscope is essentially a magnifying glass with a light and is non-invasive.

As the iridologist exams your eye, they are observing and comparing it against an iris chart. The chart divides the iris into zones that correspond to other areas of the body. The iridologist may also use an iridocamera to take a photograph of the iris that can be transferred to computer. This will then be used in follow-up appointments to compare any changes.

After your examination, the iridologist will inform you of their observations and any associated problems. They will then recommend a course of treatment that may involve another complementary therapy. If the iridologist is trained in another therapy they will carry it out themselves otherwise they will refer you to a specialist.

Your first appointment may last from 45 - 90 minutes as the iridologist gains an understanding of your general health and carries out the examination. Subsequent appointments will usually last around 30 - 45 minutes but will be dependent on any other treatments or therapies that are required. Your iridologist will discuss this with you.

An initial iridology consultation can cost up to £60 with follow-up sessions costing around £45. If your iridologist recommends other therapies or any supplements or natural remedies there may be additional costs to cover this. Check with your local practitioner before making an appointment.

A single session of iridology may be all that is required to identify your problem but expect to attend follow-up consultations so the iridologist can re-examine the eye for changes. If other alternative therapies are used this will also affect the number of sessions you'll attend.

Iridology is a safe and non-invasive diagnostic method and can be of benefit to everyone. Due to light shining directly into the eye it is not recommended for people suffering with epilepsy.

Consult with your GP and iridologist about any problems or concerns you have as they are trained to recognise what can and cannot be analysed with iridology.