The damage caused by spittlebugs varies according to the species of grass, and the losses can reach alarming levels. Measures for population control are currently restricted to the use of resistant grasses and pasture diversification. Therefore, alternative control measures are necessary, such as the use of botanical insecticides (organic compounds extracted from plants). The objective of this study was to evaluate the insecticidal activities of thymol, carvacrol, eugenol, cinnamaldehyde, and trans-anethole on Mahanarva spectabilis eggs, nymphs, and adults under laboratory conditions. In the tests carried out with eggs, eugenol, carvacrol, and thymol caused the highest mortality rates, with efficiencies above 85% after 48 h of application. In the tests carried out with nymphs, thymol and carvacrol at 2.5% and eugenol at 2.0% and 2.5% showed intermediate efficiencies, with values above 61%. The highest mortality was observed in the treatment with trans-anethole at 2.5%, with an efficiency of 95%. In the tests carried out with adults, trans-anethole at 2.5% was the only efficient treatment, reaching 90% efficiency; in the other treatments, the efficiency did not exceed 51%. These results showed that, at the studied concentrations, trans-anethole has a high rate of insecticidal activity on M. spectabilis nymphs and adults and, therefore, is recommended as a potential natural insecticide for the control of this pest. The information presented in this document contributes to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) number 2 (Eradication of hunger: end hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition and promote sustainable agriculture), 3 (Quality healthcare: ensuring a healthy life and promoting the well-being for all, at all ages), 6 (Clean water and sanitation: ensuring availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all) and 8 (Dignified employment and economic growth: promoting growth sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic development, full and productive employment, and decent work for all).