Episode
Episode 384: The Hijacked Mind: The Truth About Kratom, 7-OH, and How Addiction Rewires the Soul with Dr. Muhamad Aly Rifai
- Podcast
- The Addicted Mind Podcast
- Published
- May 25, 2026
- Duration seconds
- 2177
- Processing state
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Summary
In this episode, host Duane Osterlind sits down with Dr. Muhamad Aly Rifai, a dual-trained internist, psychiatrist, and addiction medicine specialist with over 25 years of clinical experience. Together, they dive deep into a rising public health concern— Kratom and 7-OH products —and unpack the complex neuroscience of how substance abuse alters brain architecture. Dr. Rifai shares insights from his book, Hijacked Mind: How Addiction Rewires the Soul , exploring the reality of permanent brain changes, the sliver of hope offered by neuroplasticity, and how a holistic Biopsychosocial model can help individuals rebuild their lives. About the Guest Muhamad Aly Rifai, MD , is an internist, psychiatrist, and addiction specialist. He serves as the medical director of an addiction treatment center and has spent the last two decades treating individuals facing co-occurring psychiatric disorders and chemical dependencies. He is also known online as "The Virtual Psychiatrist." Key Takeaways & Discussion Points 1. The Kratom Crisis: Natural Leaf vs. 7-OH Kratom is a tropical tree native to Southeast Asia. While traditionally used as a tea for pain relief, a massive commercial market has emerged around it in the United States, creating two distinct camps: The Natural Leaf Camp: Powdered or dried leaves primary containing mitragynine . Many users report it offers relief from chronic pain, fibromyalgia, and fatigue when used responsibly. The 7-OH Camp: Highly potent, biochemically isolated 7-hydroxymitragynine sold in gas stations and smoke shops as pills, extracts, and drinks. The Clinical Reality: Because these products are completely unregulated by the FDA, consumers often don't know what they are ingesting. Dr. Rifai notes a dramatic rise in patients requiring medical detoxifi…