A Carlisle-based traditional Chinese Medicine acupuncturist, Ruth Irving, is offering her ear seeds service to stressed students during exam season.

Ear seeds were thrown into focus following a recent controversial Dragons' Den episode. 

All of the Dragons, including guest star, Gary Neville, put in an offer for Giselle Boxer's Acu Seeds product, which is described as a “DIY needle-free ear acupuncture for anxiety, migraines, hormonal issues, insomnia, weight loss and more”.

She claimed it had cured her Myalgic encephalomyelitis, commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome. 

The show faced criticism from Carlisle acupuncturist and member of the British Acupuncture Council, Ruth Irving, who said that the episode had 'upset’ doctors, ME sufferers and 'legitimate, fully qualified traditional Chinese medicine acupuncturists'.

“Generally, these are used as part of a treatment plan, which is founded on a traditional Chinese medicine diagnosis.

“Auriculotherapy (which includes ear seeds) is a legitimate technique when performed by a professional acupuncturist," Ruth said. 

Ruth has used ear seeds as part of her acupuncture practice at Carlisle Therapies, on 34 Lowther Street, for the past 15 years.

"I came up with the idea when I was applying ear pellets to my nieces who are about to start their GCSE's and A levels.

"I thought, why not extend this benefit to other teens anxious about their exams," she said. 

These seeds are attached to a small adhesive sticker and applied to a precise acupuncture point on the ear.

They're simple to apply, and can last up to a week, during which they can be replaced with a fresh pellet.

The user can press the seeds throughout the day to stimulate the ear acupuncture point.

There's also the option to purchase a strip of 20 replacement pellets to reapply at home. Ruth is happy to arrange visits within Wigton and Kirkbride.

For more information visit Ruth’s website: www.ruthirvingacupunctureyoga.co.uk or call: 077 88 616 488