Overview

Iridology practitioners diagnose disease or medical conditions by examining the colored portion (iris) of the eye.

Iridology is not used to treat disease. It is used to diagnose disease, but there is no good scientific evidence to support this use.

Iridologists believe that sections of the eye correspond to specific organs or systems of the body. They think that abnormalities in the appearance of the eye suggest disease or the likelihood of getting a particular disease. Some iridologists believe that the appearance of the eye can be used to suggest dietary needs. However, there is no scientific support for these beliefs.

How does it work ?

Iridologists believe that sections of the eye correspond to specific organs or systems of the body. They think that abnormalities in the appearance of the eye suggest disease or the likelihood of getting a particular disease. Some iridologists believe that the appearance of the eye can be used to suggest dietary needs. However, there is no scientific support for these beliefs.

Uses & Effectiveness

Insufficient Evidence for

  • Diagnosing cancer. Early research shows that iridology practitioners do not consistently or accurately diagnose various cancers including breast, ovary, uterus, prostate, or colorectal cancer.
  • Diagnosing gallbladder disease. According to iridologists, gallbladder disease is a condition easily identified. But there is evidence that iridology practitioners do not consistently or accurately diagnose gallbladder disease.
  • Diagnosing high blood pressure. According to iridologists, people with high blood pressure are more likely to have a "neurogenic" constitution.
  • Diagnosing kidney disease. There is evidence that iridology practitioners do not consistently or accurately diagnose kidney disease.
  • Diagnosis of other diseases and medical conditions.

More evidence is needed to rate iridology for these uses.

Side Effects



Special Precautions and Warnings



There isn't enough reliable information to know if iridology is safe. Since it is not an invasive practice and does not involve taking any substance, it is not likely to be harmful. But since iridology is not proven to accurately diagnose disease, there is concern that an iridology diagnosis could be wrong or that medical conditions could be missed. An inaccurate or missed diagnosis could result in no treatment, delayed treatment, or inappropriate treatment.

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if iridology is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Interactions

We currently have no information for Iridology overview.

Dosing

The appropriate or safe use of iridology depends on several factors such as the condition being treated or the person administering the treatment. Be sure to seek and follow relevant directions from your physician or other healthcare professional before using this treatment.
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