BBC pull Dragons’ Den episode after health row over ‘ear seeds’ pitch viewers dubbed ‘exploitative’
THE BBC have removed a Dragons' Den episode from their streaming service after a guest showcased "ear seeds".
Giselle Boxer, 31, made history on the hit show in recent days after landing an astonishing six offers from the Dragons.
But her business was said to have been reported to the Advertising Standards Authority over what are said to be "unproven" claims.
Doctors and "vulnerable sick people" alike have written letters and complaints, saying the product is giving patients "false hope".
And now the BBC have pulled the episode, which aired on January 18.
A BBC spokesperson told The Sun: "We're taking the concerns raised seriously, so we are reviewing the episode and therefore it's currently not available on iPlayer."
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The broadcaster previously defended the inclusion of the wellness business.
Action for ME said on social media that it had written to BBC Director-General Tim Davie to voice its concerns about the episode.
Boxer proudly pitched her business Acu Seed - which sells a version of what she says helped her overcome a debilitating disease.
The mum says she was just 26 when she was diagnosed with myalgic encephalomyelitis (ME) - also known as Chronic Fatigue Syndrome - which left her gravely ill.
However, Boxer told the Dragons that with the help of diet, acupuncture, Chinese herbs and ear seeds her symptoms were eased.
Ear seeds are tiny needle-less beads, based on acupuncture principles, which are applied to the ear to stimulate nerve endings.
Boxer said her recovery inspired her to set up Acu Seeds with the aim of helping others recover from similar conditions - including anxiety and migraines.
The mum was overwhelmed by offers from the Dragons, and ended up settling with entrepreneur Steven Bartlett.
He invested £50,000 into her business for a 12.5 per cent return.
