This 53-year-old social entrepreneur from Kerala uses plants to bring relief to people with illnesses

Close your eyes and picture a forest with thick green foliage. Studies show that being around plants can bring a tremendous change to your mental health and well being. But that isn't all. Plants can heal physical wounds and diseases as well.

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To address respiratory problems due to pollution, Suma Manzil, a 53-year-old social entrepreneur, has been helping people increase the green cover in and around their house. To set up an indoor garden, she handpicks indoor plants that can easily trap pollutants in the air.

Speaking to The News Minute, she said,

“Pollution in the city was one thing I was always concerned about. When Kochi Metro construction kicked off in the city, many residents, including me, were having respiratory problems. And so, after my parents’ death, I set up a mini garden in their house.”

Instead of using plastic pots, Suma opts for reusable waste products like beer bottles and imported ceramic vessels.

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Started in January this year, her small initiative has now become famous. So far, she has helped quite a few people suffering from various diseases. The source for the cost of treatment was generated through the sale of her plants, reports Indian Women Blog. She funds the treatment of people in need by selling indoor plants.

When asked why she started the initiative, Suma said,

“My father was a dementia patient for the past one and half years. He passed away last September. My mother also passed away a few months before that due to a stroke. The most difficult years in my life were the time when my father was down with dementia. Though we could afford treatment and provide other support for him, it was a tough period. It made me think about others who cannot even afford daily medicines and are fighting against all odds”, reports The News Minute.

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