We’ve all heard the saying, “The eyes are the windows of our soul.” Today the scope of understanding goes beyond that.  Through ever expanding research and technology we now see the eyes as also being the “mirror of the body” used to gain insight into a person’s state of health. Harri Wolf, a well- known American researcher states in his book, Applied Iridology, “Iridology, as the study and analysis of the neuro-optic reflex is known, is the art and science of revealing the pathological, structural, functional and emotional disturbances in the human body.”

So what IS Iridology?

I asked myself that very question which led me to take a series of classes offered by a well-respected iridologist and herbalist in Ann Arbor. I quickly became immersed in the science and application of this fascinating field. Iridology can be used with all walks of life and seeks to study the colors, shapes, markings and structures of the eye that manifest in patterns that, when interpreted by a practitioner, determine the inherent strengths and weaknesses in the body. The iris contains over 28,000 nerve fibers that are connected to every organ and tissue by way of the brain and nervous system. The analysis of the iris, the most complex tissue of the body meeting the outside world, sets up a communication system to observe normal and abnormal reflex signs. With over 200 years of empirical evidence being collected, it is known that these nerve fibers react to changes in our system and can be mapped to determine, on an individual basis, the condition of our health so that we can make the necessary modifications to impact the goals of balance and vitality.

What can I expect from a session?

First, let me clarify what iridology is NOT. It is not a diagnostic method. It does not prevent, cure or treat dis-ease. It is often used in conjunction with other modalities by iridologists, chiropractors, naturopaths, and medical doctors to determine where the body is strong and/or weak to educate the client on the inner workings of their body to help determine what physical, lifestyle, and emotional factors have contributed to their current health.

Iridology does read tissue condition to determine a person’s response to treatment and healing. It is therefore a powerful tool when working for preventive care. The information obtained in a session is dynamic and comprehensive. The session may include a high resolution photograph or can be done manually with a jeweler’s loupe and a pen light. The practitioner uses a chart that was developed over the course of 50 years by Bernard Jensen, a pioneer in the field. Each iris is divided into 7 zones and 90 known specific areas on each eye corresponding to areas of the body. The use of this chart allows the findings to be related to the whole person very accurately and in an organized manner.

Some other signs that can be seen in the iris are: strong or weak glands, tissues, and organs, stages of tissue inflammation, under-activity and sluggishness in the bowel, genetic influences on symptoms present, adrenal exhaustion, acidity in body, lymphatic system congestion, and how stress and mental fatigue impact the body - just to name a few.

By looking at the density of fibers in an iris, it is possible to determine the ability of the body to resist a negative energy. The ability to react to these negative influences is measured by dark and light shadings in the iris. For example, when a very light shading is seen, it may signal a state of inflammation or an acute situation. Conversely, when there are darker shadings, it is a signal that there may be a chronic or degenerative situation in that corresponding part of the body.

Constitution is another important finding during a session and is characterized by the tightness of fibers in the iris. Someone with a strong constitution typically has close knit uniform fibers and rarely becomes ill and recovers quickly if that happens. They can hold on to nutrients and carry away toxins properly. A weaker constitution has a more irregular and open-spaced structure. An individual with a weaker constitution typically has to work harder at maintaining health, may have frequent bouts of illness and longer recovery times. Their metabolic processes are slower and nutrient retention can be challenging, and toxic accumulations are more likely.

There are many other wonderful and insightful revelations obtained from the findings in an iridology session and warrant a more in depth look to gain proper perspective to truly appreciate the science of iridology. What first intrigued me was how the historical beginnings stemmed back from ancient times with some evidence as far back as Central Asia in 1000 B.C. However, it is in the past 200 years that it has been developed and refined into the practice that it is today with the help of both European and American founders. What keeps my colleagues, my clients, and myself intrigued is the marvel and wisdom at which our very own bodies can demonstrate to the trained eye what is happening in our systems and how we can improve on the amazing beings we are with the ultimate tool - the window to our soul.