AbstractTurmeric has been used commonly as a spice, food additive, and an herbal medicine worldwide. Known as a bioactive polyphenolic extract of Turmeric, curcumin has a broad range of health benefit properties for humans. Recently, active research on curcumin with respect to aging and related traits in model organisms has demonstrated that curcumin and its metabolite, tetrahydrocurcumin (THC), increase mean lifespan of at least three model organisms: nematode roundworm, fruit flyDrosophila,and mouse. Nematodes grown on media containing curcumin showed a significantly increased lifespan by reducing the production of reactive oxygen species. Genesosr‐1, sek‐1, mek‐1, skn‐1, unc‐43, sir‐2.1, andage‐1are required for curcumin‐mediated lifespan extension. The lifespan extension ofDrosophilaby curcumin supplementation was associated with increased superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, and decreased lipofuscin and malondialdehyde levels. Curcumin up‐regulated expression of SOD genes and down‐regulated expression of several age‐related genes, such asdInR, ATTD, Def, CecB,andDptB.In addition, THC extended lifespan inDrosophilaand inhibited the oxidative stress response by regulatingFOXOandSir2.Mice fed diets containing THC starting at the age of 13 months had significantly increased mean lifespan. In summary, the positive effects of curcumin on lifespan extension likely arise from beneficial regulation of common oxidative stress responses and age‐related genes. Understanding the molecular mechanism(s) of curcumin action has provided base knowledge and rationale for future human clinical trials, and for nutritional intervention in aging and age‐associated disorders in humans. © 2013 BioFactors, 39(1):133–140, 2013