Iridology is an alternative medicine analysis of the iris, the colored part of the eye surrounding the pupil. It is believed that by analyzing this section, the health of the person can be determined and the appropriate treatment recommended. Developed by a Hungarian physician, Dr. Ignatz von Peczely in 1861, an iridology chart is a tool used by iridologists to map out the possible correlation between disease and individual markings within the iris. An iridology chart is in the shape of the eye, with cross connections to the body’s organs.
In creating the chart, an iridologist will attempt to map out a range of potential disorders in the patient. These can include chemical imbalances, inflammation, toxin accumulation as well as mental and emotional health issues. A key aspect of the iridology chart is to uncover any genetic, or inherited disorders, and preempt future illnesses that may be apparent when reading the chart. The iris apparently is able to retain and reveal past illnesses and injury as well. A person’s natural talents may also be discovered and this could theoretically point the individual towards a career or hobby they might be good at.
Iridology charts and interpretation techniques can vary from country to country as well as between practitioners. They are all similar in that they dissect the iris into various areas that correspond to different parts on and within the body. In general, the top of the eye corresponds to the top half of the body and the bottom of the eye connects to the lower half. The left section of the eye corresponds to the left side of the body and the right eye to the right side. The middle eye connects to the stomach area and when organs are in pairs, as with the lungs and kidneys, they are represented by both irises.
Training in this field will typically include the study of general human anatomy, nutrition and herbal medicine. The major focus will be the study of the iris itself and the iridology chart, as well as all potential treatments. The future iridologist will have to complete a basic practitioner’s certification and the course can take up to two years to complete with 15 to 25 hours of study credited. To attain a doctoral degree in iridology, the participant will need to complete a further 68 hours of study material. Iridology has not been entirely accepted by the scientific community, and as such, these certifications are a must for those wishing to become practitioners.