(This is the fifth and final of a five-part series on alternative medicine.)
Iridology: A Holistic Approach to Health Assessment
Iridology is a holistic practice that analyzes the iris of
the eye to detect health conditions and imbalances in the body. It uses an
iridology chart to locate the features or abnormalities in the color of the
iris that correspond to different body parts and functions. This is similar to the way a reflexology chart is used to identify reflex points that are
believed to correspond to different organs and body systems. Iridology is not usually
a standalone holistic approach but is a diagnostic tool used in conjunction
with naturopathic and other herbal treatments.
What is the iris and what does it reveal?
The iris is the colored part of the eye that surrounds the
pupil. It is composed of muscle fibers, blood vessels, nerves, and pigment
cells. The iris controls the amount of light that enters the eye by adjusting
the size of the pupil. It is also one of the most stable and unique features of
the human body. No two irises are exactly alike, not even in identical twins.
The iris patterns are formed during fetal development and remain unchanged
throughout life, except for some minor changes due to aging or injury. This
makes the iris a reliable biometric identifier that can be used for security
purposes.
Iridologists believe that the iris can also reveal
information about the health of the body and its organs, systems, and tissues. Each
part of the iris is said to correspond to a specific part of the body, and an
iridology chart is used to illustrate this. The chart divides the iris into
zones, sectors, and signs that represent different anatomical regions and
functions.
By examining the iris with a flashlight, magnifying glass,
camera, or microscope, iridologists look for changes in color, shape, size,
structure, and markings of the iris. They interpret these changes as indicators
of inflammation, toxicity, stress, weakness, or disease conditions in the
corresponding body part or function. It is said that iridologists can determine some existing
conditions in a person without being told about their medical conditions or history. For
example, if an iridologist finds a dark spot in the lower right quadrant of the
right iris, they may conclude that there is a problem with the right kidney. If
they find a white ring around the pupil, they may infer that there is a high
level of cholesterol or arterial plaque in the blood vessels.
How is iridology performed and what are its benefits?
Iridology is usually performed by a trained practitioner
who has studied iridology theory and practice. This person may be a traditional
naturopath who has been trained in certain areas of holistic medicine such as
naturopathy, herbology, or iridology or may be a naturopathic doctor (ND) with a degree. The
practitioner may use various tools and methods to examine and record the iris
patterns of their clients. Some common tools and methods are:
- An iriscope: a
device that consists of a light source, a magnifying lens, and a mirror. The
practitioner places the device over one eye and looks at its reflection in the
mirror. The device allows both eyes to be examined simultaneously.
- A slit-lamp microscope: A slit-lamp microscope is an
instrument that uses a narrow beam of light and a binocular microscope to
examine the eye in detail. The practitioner can adjust the angle, width, and
intensity of the light beam to highlight different features of the iris.
- A camera: A digital camera with a macro lens can capture
high-resolution images of the iris that can be stored and analyzed on a
computer. The practitioner may use software programs that can enhance, measure,
compare, and classify the iris images.
- A flashlight and a magnifying glass: The simplest way to
observe the iris is by using a bright light source and a handheld magnifier.
The practitioner holds the light close to the eye and looks at the iris through
the magnifier.
The benefits of iridology are mainly based on testimonials
from practitioners and clients. Some claimed benefits are:
- It can provide a holistic view of the body's health
status and potential risks.
- It can detect health problems before they manifest as
symptoms or diseases.
- It can identify the root causes of health problems rather
than treating only their effects.
- It can suggest natural remedies such as herbs,
supplements, diet, or lifestyle changes to improve health and prevent disease.
- It can monitor the progress and effectiveness of
treatments or interventions.
- It can enhance self-awareness and empowerment by
encouraging clients to take responsibility for their own health.
Limitations and risks of iridology include:
- It cannot replace conventional medical tests or
examinations that can confirm or rule out diagnoses.
- It cannot prescribe or administer medical treatments or
medications that may be necessary or beneficial for some health problems.
- It may cause harm or delay proper medical care by giving
false reassurance or misleading advice to clients who have serious underlying
conditions.
- It may conflict or interfere with other medical
treatments or medications that clients are taking or need to take.
How to choose an iridologist and what to expect from a
session?
If you are interested in trying iridology, you should do
your own research. You should choose an iridologist who has proper training,
certification, and experience in the field. You should ask for their
credentials, references, and testimonials. You should also check their
reputation, reviews, and complaints online or offline, as you would for any
professional whose services you wish to engage.
You should expect from a session:
- An intake form that asks about your medical history,
current health status, symptoms, medications, allergies, lifestyle, and goals.
- A physical examination of your eyes using one or more of
the tools and methods mentioned above.
- A verbal or written report of the findings and
interpretations of your iris patterns according to the iridology chart.
- A personalized recommendation of natural remedies,
supplements, diet, or lifestyle changes that may improve your health and
prevent disease.
- Follow-up sessions or contact to monitor your progress
and adjust your plan as needed.
Naturopathic Treatment
Naturopathy is a holistic approach to health and wellness
that focuses on the body's innate ability to heal itself. Iridology is one of several
diagnostic tools that can be used by a naturopathic doctor. Naturopathy uses
natural therapies such as nutrition, herbal medicine, homeopathy, acupuncture,
hydrotherapy, and lifestyle counseling to treat the root cause of disease and
promote optimal health. Naturopathy is based on the principle that the body has
a vital force or energy that maintains its balance and harmony. When this force
is disrupted by external or internal factors, such as stress, toxins, poor
diet, or emotional imbalance, disease can occur. Naturopathy aims to restore
the balance of the vital forces and stimulate the body's self-healing
mechanisms.
Naturopathy is not a one-size-fits-all approach.
Naturopaths treat each person as an individual and tailor their treatment plan
according to their unique needs, preferences, and goals. Naturopaths also
consider the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual aspects of health and
wellness, and address them holistically. Naturopathy is not only a system of
medicine but also a way of life that encourages people to take responsibility
for their own health and well-being.
Naturopathy can help with a variety of health conditions,
such as chronic pain, digestive disorders, hormonal imbalances, allergies, skin
problems, anxiety, depression, insomnia, and more. Naturopathy can also support
people who want to prevent disease, enhance their immunity, improve their
energy levels, manage their stress, and achieve their optimal health potential.
Naturopathy is compatible with conventional medicine and can be used as a
complementary, integrative, or alternative therapy. Naturopaths work
collaboratively with other health professionals and refer patients to them when
necessary.
Herbs and Herbal Treatments
Herbal treatments are often used to complement iridology,
as they can help address the root causes of the problems identified by the iris
analysis. Naturopathic doctors sometimes use herbal treatments with their
patients. Herbology is usually included in their course of study. It is the
study of plants and their medicinal, culinary, and cosmetic uses. It is a
branch of botany that focuses on the identification, cultivation, harvesting,
and preparation of herbs for various purposes. Herbology has a long history in
many cultures and traditions, such as Chinese medicine, Ayurveda, Native
American healing, African herbalism, and European herbalism. Herbs have also been used by
humans for thousands of years for various purposes, such as medicine and food. Herbs
have a long and rich history that spans across cultures and continents. Many
ancient books, including the Bible, the Vedas, and the Ebers Papyrus a medical
text from ancient Egypt mention the use of herbs and their benefits. The Ebers
Papyrus which dates back to 1500 BC, also describes the preparation and dosage
of herbal medicines, as well as the diagnosis and treatment of various
diseases.
The Bible mentions many herbs that were used by the people
of Israel and other nations in the Middle East. Some of these herbs are
frankincense, myrrh, cinnamon, cassia, and aloes. These herbs were used for religious
ceremonies, such as offerings and incense, as well as for medicinal purposes.
For example, frankincense and myrrh were used to treat wounds and infections,
while cinnamon and cassia were used to flavor food and drinks.
Many people rely on traditional medicine to treat various
health conditions, such as malaria, diabetes, hypertension, infertility, and
more. They can provide natural alternatives or complements to conventional
medicine, but they should be used with caution and respect. Many people think
of natural remedies when they hear the word "plants", but did you
know that some of the most effective synthetic medicines were developed by
studying compounds in plants and mimicking them?
One of the most well-known examples is aspirin, which is
derived from salicylic acid, a compound found in willow bark and other plants.
Salicylic acid has anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving properties, but it can
also cause stomach irritation and bleeding. Scientists modified the chemical
structure of salicylic acid to create acetylsalicylic acid, which is less harsh
on the stomach and more potent. Aspirin is now one of the most widely used
drugs in the world, with applications ranging from headache relief to
preventing heart attacks and strokes.
Another example is Taxol, a powerful anti-cancer drug that
was discovered in the bark of the Pacific yew tree. Taxol works by interfering
with the division of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and spreading.
However, extracting Taxol from the yew bark was very inefficient and threatened
the survival of the endangered tree. Scientists were able to synthesize Taxol
in the laboratory, using a precursor molecule found in a more abundant plant,
the European yew. This made Taxol more accessible and affordable for cancer
patients, as well as more environmentally friendly.
Some of the benefits of herbs are:
- They can help you treat common ailments and conditions,
such as colds, headaches, digestive issues, skin problems, and more. Herbs have
different properties and effects on the body, such as anti-inflammatory,
antiseptic, antiviral, antibacterial, etc. By using the right herbs for your
situation, you can relieve your symptoms and support your immune system.
- They can enhance the nutrition and flavor of food. Herbs are
rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that can boost
your health and well-being. They can also add variety and taste to your meals
and drinks. You can use herbs to make teas, infusions, decoctions, tinctures,
syrups, oils, vinegars, salts, spices, and more.
- They can improve your mood and mental health. Herbs can
have positive effects on your brain and nervous system, such as calming,
uplifting, stimulating, or balancing. They can help you cope with stress,
anxiety, depression, insomnia, and other emotional issues. You can use herbs to
make aromatherapy products, such as candles, diffusers, sprays, lotions, etc.
Some of the most common herbs used in African traditional
medicine, and in other countries around the world, include ginger, garlic,
moringa, aloe vera, neem, and rooibos. Cinnamon and cloves are also common in
many kitchens globally.
Conclusion
Iridology is a holistic diagnostic tool that may provide
some insights into your general health status and potential risks. Practitioners
such as naturopaths may also suggest some natural remedies or lifestyle changes
that may improve your health and prevent diseases or other conditions. Naturopathic
treatments and modalities such as herbal treatments, nutrition, hydrotherapy,
botanical medicine, traditional Chinese medicine, massage therapy, rife
treatment, kinesiology, aromatherapy, IV therapy, lifestyle changes, and other
traditional world medicine may be used alongside iridology.
Herbal treatments are a valuable addition to iridology, as
they can help you achieve optimal health and wellness. By combining these
natural modalities, you can benefit from a holistic and personalized approach
to healing. You should research the modalities to identify potential risks or
limitations. Consider combining some of these approaches with your conventional treatments if they are appropriate for your situation and can benefit you. You should consult your doctor before starting any new health
regimen or making any changes to your existing one.
Alternative medicine has many modalities and submodalities. This series is by no means exhaustive. We will be revisiting some of these as well as exploring others in the future.
Disclaimer: Any information on conditions, illnesses, diseases, remedies, and treatments available via this blog is intended for general guidance only and must never be considered a substitute for the advice provided by your doctor or other qualified healthcare professionals.
