The present invention relates to a hepato-protective beverage composition comprising a potable liquid, a primary hepato-protective agent comprising 18β-Glycyrrhizin or 18α-Glycyrrhizin or a combination thereof, and a complimentary hepato-protective agent comprising sugar or sugar alcohol or a combination thereof. The combination of effective amounts of the primary and complimentary hepato-protective agents provides hepato-protection and reduced toxicity caused by consumption of alcoholic beverages. The present invention also provides a beverage additive comprising these hepato-protective agents designed to be mixed with a potable liquid, providing the same beneficial results.
