The Truth about THAT episode of Dragon’s Den
/Entrepreneur Giselle Boxer recently featured on the popular television show, Dragon’s Den. She had suffered from M.E, or chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS), and credited her recovery to four things. She said “I went on a personal healing journey using diet, acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and ear seeds. 'Using this combination, I believe, helped me recover in less than 12 months”.
The episode has sparked debate about ear seeds and other forms of Chinese Medicine. It focused attention for this ancient practice, but also led to misrepresentation. Viewers and healthcare professionals, including acupuncturists, raised concerns about the programme.
Ms Boxer said she had identified a gap in the market for self-administered ear seeds.
“I went on a personal healing journey using diet, acupuncture, Chinese herbs, and ear seeds.”
Is there a gap in the market ?
The Dragons never asked Ms Boxer how effective ear seeds alone would be. Nor did they ask who had applied her ear seeds. Ear seeds, like needles, need to be precisely located. It’s a job for a professional. It is likely that they were applied by a qualified acupuncturist as an adjunct to a full treatment.
Administering any form of Chinese Medicine requires a thorough understanding of its concepts. There is a diagnosis, and an individually formulated treatment. Deborah Meaden was asked if she’d like to try the ear seeds without questions about what she’d like to try them FOR!
The depiction of ear seeds as a quick fix or trendy wellness product overlooks the rigorous training and qualifications required to practice acupuncture safely and effectively. Acupuncturists undergo extensive education and training, usually to degree level, to ensure they can provide competent and ethical care to their patients. By trivialising acupuncture into a DIY, at-home remedy, the segment downplays the expertise and professionalism of qualified practitioners.
Acupuncture as a healthcare profession
Acupuncture often finds itself under scrutiny, labelled as snake oil or unproven. There has been negative publicity following Dragons Den episode. However, endorsements by reputable organisations like the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) have brought attention to its efficacy, particularly in managing chronic pain. I've witnessed first-hand the benefits of acupuncture in alleviating discomfort and improving quality of life. You might be surprised to know that I’ve done this within the NHS as well as in my private clinic.
“Acu Seeds are not intended as a cure for any medical condition and advice should always be sought from a qualified healthcare provider about any health concerns”
While scepticism may linger, the tangible relief experienced by patients underscores the significance of integrating alternative therapies like acupuncture into mainstream healthcare practices.
Degree-educated acupuncturists are recognised by Public Health England as healthcare professionals. This acknowledgment not only validates the rigorous training and expertise of these practitioners but also underscores the growing acceptance of acupuncture as a viable treatment option for various health conditions. With this recognition, patients can feel assured that seeking acupuncture treatment from a qualified practitioner means accessing a legitimate and respected form of healthcare.
It’s a little late in the day, but it’s good to see the BBC have added a rider to the programme - “Acu Seeds are not intended as a cure for any medical condition and advice should always be sought from a qualified healthcare provider about any health concerns”.
And finally….
I don’t blame Ms Boxer for the uproar surrounding THAT episode. I’ve watched it, and I didn’t hear her claim that ear seeds alone cured her. But including her story as part of her pitch tied the two together in people’s minds. She admitted she was in marketing, and never once claimed to be a health care professional. Perhaps the Dragons should have dug a little deeper, but once they saw the potential profits, they had a laser like focus on the money.
In the aftermath of the Dragon's Den episode, it's crucial to separate the hype surrounding ear seeds from the broader practice of acupuncture and other forms of Chinese Medicine. While the exposure may have sparked curiosity about alternative therapies, it's essential to approach them with an informed and critical perspective. Consulting with a qualified acupuncturist can provide valuable insights and personalised recommendations tailored to one's specific health needs.