Official Resource The International Iridology Practitioners Association -- http://www.iridologyassn.org/

Short Definition
Based on the theory that each organ of the body can be matched to a corresponding section of the iris, iridologists have mapped 90 specific areas and 180 zones thought to reveal important information about the condition of the body.

Expanded Information
Iridology is the analysis of the iris of the eye, the colored portion that reveals the basic constitutional health of an individual. Iridology can indicate genetic and functional weaknesses, tissue and organ condition, areas of nutritional depletion and need, areas of inflammation and toxicity, and the general body constitution. This information is gathered by “reading” the fiber and markings of the iris, which manifests symptoms specific to all the organs of the body before they would be discernible through lab analysis or blood work.

Eyes have long been referred to as the "Windows of the Soul." But few people are aware of just how true this observation is. Accurate analysis of iris structure and pigmentation provides information about you or your clients that is hard to find through other methods. This information is so valuable that Iridology deserves to become a widely practiced assessment tool in both the physical and psychological health fields.

There are a multitude of factors that influence our health and personality, and many of these factors are reflected in the iris. Look closely at your eyes in a mirror, and then at the irises of those around you. You will see many different patterns of iris fibers and colors. Like fingerprints or faces, no two are exactly alike, and neither are we! The iris structure is so unique it is now being used for security identification at ATM machines and airports. Microsoft's "house of the future" will use an eye scanner to identify residents and unlock the door.

How Did This Get Started?
While eyes have been a focus in civilizations throughout the ages, "modern" Iridology got its start just over 100 years ago. In the late 1800's, a physician from Hungary and another from Sweden began observing eyes and organizing their findings. This process of observation and correlating has been slow, but it established a foundation for others to build on. The first book on Iridology in America, by an emigrated Austrian physician, was printed in 1904. This was followed by the works of N.D.s and other naturopathic oriented M.D.s.

Progress was difficult, working with limited magnification and photography equipment. Then with the emergence of the AMA, other political and economic influences, and the advent of "miracle" drugs, almost all natural medicine practices declined in this country. Credit goes to Dr. Bernard Jensen for singlehandedly keeping Iridology alive in North America. IIPA has honored him several times in recognition of these efforts.

In Europe, a different political and economic climate created an environment which has allowed Iridology (and other natural medicine practices) to evolve. The International Iridology Practitioners Association (a non-profit organization) is working to make the more modern European research available and to update current teachings.

Source: Bill Caradonna, R.Ph., N.D. -- http://www.iridologyassn.org/