IRIDOLOGY

Iridology is the art and science of evaluating a person through the observation of their eyes. Specifically, the colored portion, the iris and to some extent, the conjunctiva, or white of the eye, are used. This information enhances the understanding strengths and challenges within a body. The genetic makeup is demonstrated here, as is the level of tissue inflammation and toxicity.

The eyes have often been referred to as windows to the soul. Starting in the early 1800's, specific changes in the iris were documented by doctors that were related to certain conditions. Hundreds of areas and signs have been defined. Although iris analysis is not common in the United States, it is popular in Europe. It is taught in medical schools and used by many medical doctors.

Personality traits can also be seen within your eyes. This concept has been developed only over the past twenty years. More recently the concept of "Time Risk" has been introduced. This defines time periods when the body was more vulnerable to stresses with a more damaging effect on the body. There is no other place that connections between the mind and the body are more evident.

The eye is like a language. Our understanding is only limited by our ability to interpret the symbols and signs. Recent European and Russian studies have been demonstrating the many interconnections and various interactions between the eyes and the body-mind.

The iris has a very special makeup. Some of the nerves leading to the front part of the eye are connected via the brain to cells throughout the body. These ocular cells are very unique because they have characteristics of both nerve and muscle cells. They are in contact with and react to changes within the body. This two-way communication link is believed to influence how the body reacts or heals. Light affects an organ system through these nerves and the organ can also modify the appearance of the iris. By observing the change in appearance, the status of a tissue can be determined.

Each individual's genetic makeup is unique. The characteristics that we have inherited influence the way that our bodies grow. During the early stages of our development, the environment will modify who and what we become. The iris is influenced by this and will vary in appearance based on the body's constitution as it is formed. Iridologists can then determine the relative strengths of the individual. Some areas of the body are not as resistant to stress. They may function abnormally and break down. The reaction of these different body tissues is evident as inflammation or degeneration. When this happens the body manifests symptoms that we call disease.

This is not practicing of medicine or optometry. Iridology does not name diseases. It does not show past operations, variations of normal cells, pregnancy, cancer or a specific pathology by name. It is not a psychic analysis but rather an empirical study that does have the ability to view the interplay of the various parts of the body. A person's mental or personality characteristics may also be evident.

The iris reveals where we are strongly or weakly built. It illustrates how well our body handles stressors. Some are very sensitive to stress while others seem to resist stress better and have quicker recovery. The quality of the neural force in different areas as well as the overall condition of the nervous system can be evaluated. Most of the other systems are also shown, including the endocrine, circulatory, lymphatic, reproductive, gastrointestinal, respiratory, skin, etc. The inherent strength, toxicity and degree of function can be seen. Even before symptoms are present, iridology can enhances one's understanding of those areas that need attention. Whether one has a disease or just a risk factor, the iris is a valuable guide.

The evaluation involves a careful study of your eyes using an instrument called a Biomicroscope or Slit Lamp. This allows for a detailed observation of the individual fibers and signs. A special camera is also used to take photographs of your eyes for reference and for research. Questions and discussion will refine the analysis to provide you the most accurate information. The sessions will often exceed an hour in length and may be taped. Although the microscope is bright there is nothing about the process that is invasive or painful.

After your iris analysis, your understanding of those processes that may have created health problems should be enhanced. Areas that are at risk can be identified. Nutritional and life-style changes that are supportive of these areas can be implemented to protect against stress.

There are several organizations for iridology. Originally formed in the U.S.A., the International Iridology Practitioners Association is now active in several countries. The IIPA is a nonprofit group that set standards and certifies students and classes that offer iridology training. They also promote research and publish newsletters. They offer a blend of European and various other techniques. Bernard Jensen International is an organization that is based upon the work of Dr. Jensen. They also instruct iridology. Rayid is another technique that analyzes personality as defined by its founder, Denny Johnson.

There are only a few practitioners of iridology in this state. Some will instruct and lecture as well as provide iris assessment. Other than what the above organizations offer, there is no minimum or standard for credentialing someone in iridology. It is unregulated and unlicensed. Anyone can call themselves an iridologist.

Dr. Guhl first studied iridology in 1978. He has certification and the advanced certification from Bernard Jensen, International, Inc. He is certified by IIPA and is also a member of their Board of Directors and the administrator of the Research Committee. He has been instructed in the Rayid technique by Denny Johnson and has received training in "Time-Risk" by Dr. LoRito who first presented this age related trauma risk assessment in 1991 in Italy.

Dr. Guhl has introduced iridology to the colleges of optometry and also taught medical students. He has lectured on and instructed iridology to many other groups also. Iris evaluations are done by appointment in his office but separately from his optometric practice.