Naturopathy Medicine: What is iridology?

Recently, we made a trip down to the newly-opened Blackmores flagship store for a personalised consultation that examined our lifestyle and dietary habits alongside an iridology test. While we weren’t particularly aware about the process, we were no doubt introduced to a whole treasure trove of health knowledge just through a scan of our iris. In a nutshell, the test gave us an assessment, based on different marks, of potential health issues that could be due to genetic inheritance and from there we were given suggestions to adopt into our lifestyle.

Instead of confusing you any further, here’s everything you need to know under the iridology umbrella from Chua Kay Tse, Naturopath Health Educator and Training Manager Singapore, for Blackmores.

What is iridology about?

Iridology was developed in the eighteenth century by western medical practitioners as a scientific, holistic and non-invasive health assessment tool. It is the examination and analysis of the coloured portion of the eye, the iris, to determine factors that may be important in the prevention and treatment of a health issue, as well as in the attainment of optimum health.

Could you tell us what are some of the important or more visible marks in the irises?

The colours, structures and genetic signs in our iris vary according to the individual. Almost all iridology signs have an equal chance of appearing at any part of the iris (organ reaction field) that reflects the possible or current condition of the respective organ. It is important to note that iridology is best interpreted by using a professional magnifying tool such as a professional iris scope that magnifies the portion of the iris. We are unable to see much by observing with our naked eyes.

What are the benefits of iridology?

One of the biggest advantages of iridology is that it gives insights to the strengths and weaknesses of the individual’s physical, mental and emotional health. This allows health practitioners to personalise holistic health recommendations according to each individual’s health requirements.

What are some of the common misconceptions about iridology?

It is important to note that iridology is a very useful health assessment tool to determine the vitality of the glands, organs and body systems but it should never be used as a diagnosis tool. We do not overwrite doctors and diagnose illnesses by using iridology. However, we can recommend a lifestyle, diet and supplements that can help improve the over health and well-being when signs appear in the iris (which suggest possible genetic inheritance of a health condition or when a client experiences certain symptoms).

Can you tell if your health has improved from iridology? Do the marks lighten or disappear?

The structures in our iris never change. However, the eyes and iris will appear brighter and certain signs will get lighter when a person introduces positive changes to his or her diet, lifestyle and improvement of nutrient content in the body. Changes do not just happen overnight and conscious and persistent effort have to be made for possible positive changes to appear in the iris (usually it will take approx. 2 to 3 months time to see the difference). Iris signs that suggest further deteriorations in health can also appear if he or she continues with their health distractive habits and once the signs appear, they are here to stay and will never go away even if health improvements are attained.

Blackmores is located at#B1-111, Parkway Parade. The naturopath health consultation is available at SGD100 (redeemable with Blackmores products). To make an appointment, call 6225 3933 from Monday to Friday, between 9am to 5pm.

Tarandip Kaur