Studies were conducted to test the efficacy of medicinal plants viz Anthocephalus chinensis, Bixa orellana, Calotropis procera and Madhuca indica against various instars (4, 7 and 8day old larvae) of Spodoptera litura. Strong antifeedant activity was shown by M.indica against 8day old larvae. M.indica when tested further caused death of 4day old larvae four days after feeding. A.chinensis and C.procera could support the growth and development of insects causing 10 and 63.33% larval mortality respectively. Larval period was prolonged in A.chinensis (20.21d) as compared to control (9.95d) indicating adverse effect on biology. Pupation and adult emergence was minimum in C.procera (36.66 and 33.33%).The four medicinal plants reduced the mean leaf area consumed by 7day old larvae in the order M.indica (4.88cm²)> B.orellana (6.07cm²)> A.chinensis (10.06cm²)> C.procera (15.34cm²). B.orellana was most toxic showing 96.66% terminal larval mortality. M.indica leaves showed a visible effect on the ecdysis and development of insects. The insects fed on M.indica leaves were not able to moult into the next instar and finally died. M.indica and B.orellana were most toxic as natural botanical control agents in limiting the insect population. C.procera and A.chinensis were also detrimental to S.litura 7 day old larvae showing 56.66 and 70% adult emergence. All the medicinal plants were effective in controlling the growth and development of S.litura.