Dragons’ Den episode edited after ear seed complaints about Giselle Boxer pitch

The BBC has edited an episode of Dragon's Den following complaints about the wellness business it featured.

Myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) activists complained that the program promoted “baseless” claims that certain products could improve symptoms.

Gisele Boxer, a businesswoman from Sheffield, said ear seeds helped her recover from ME.

The BBC said: “Explanation has been added to the iPlayer program to address the concerns raised.”

A text statement now appears on the screen while Mr. Boxer promotes his Acu Seed business.

It says, “Acu Seeds is not intended to treat any medical condition and you should always seek the advice of a qualified health care provider regarding any health concerns.”

In an episode that aired on January 18, Boxer said she used “diet, acupuncture, herbal medicine, and ear seeds” to help her recover from ME, and turned the latter idea into her brand, Acu Seeds. Told.

A disclaimer on the company's website states that this product is not used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Proponents of ear seeds (small beads placed in the ear) claim that they stimulate pressure points.

ME, also known as chronic fatigue syndrome, is a long-term condition with symptoms such as fatigue, insomnia, and difficulty concentrating.

the NHS says There is currently no cure for this condition, but there are treatments that may help manage it.

An open letter to the chairs of two House of Commons select committees, organized by Action for Me, said it was “deeply concerned” by the way Mr Boxer presented his case.

The group said comments received suggested the product “was involved in her recovery and should therefore be considered an effective treatment.”

He added: “Unfortunately, there is currently no known effective treatment for ME. Compared to other long-term conditions, there is a distinct lack of research into this disease, which means that there is still no effective treatment for ME.'' “It means there is no cure,” he added.

“As a result, we remind people to only take medical advice from suitably qualified medical professionals and to ensure that treatment decisions are evidence-based and informed. It evokes.”

The letter also said broadcasters must make “every effort to ensure that their content is accurate and does not contain misleading or potentially dangerous information.”

Action for Me said on social media that it had also written to BBC Director-General Tim Davie expressing concerns about the episode.