Iridology is an alternative medicine technique in which it is believed that through an analysis of the patterns, colors, and other characteristics of the iris it is possible to obtain information about a patient’s health. Iridology is not actually a form of treatment, but rather a diagnostic tool. In iridology, the iris is divided into zones which correspond to specific parts of the human body. Equipment used by iridologists to examine the iris for tissue changes and particular markings and patterns includes a flashlight, magnifying glass, and cameras or slit-lamp microscopes. The markings and patterns are compared to an iris chart that correlates specific zones of the iris with specific parts of the body. Iridologists use the charts to determine the state of certain systems and organs in the body, the susceptibility towards certain illnesses, or information about past medical problems.

Charts usually divide the iris into 80 to 90 different zones. According to iridologists, details in the iris reflect changes in the tissues of the corresponding body organs. The left eye is thought to correspond with the left side of the body and the right eye with the right side of the body. In general, the higher organs, such as the brain, are represented at the top of the iris whereas the lower organs are at the bottom.

In reading the iris, iridologists study the following characteristics:

Layers: It is believed that the iris is constructed in layers that represent the four stages of tissue activity. By pinpointing the layer with the defect, it is possible to determine the nature of the problem.

Color: According to the colors found in the iris, a person is more susceptible to certain diseases or conditions.

Rings: The types of rings seen in the iris are indicators of diseases and character traits.

Spots: These may move across the iris and indicate deficiencies.