The endocrine system is, along with the nervous system, the main controller of bodily functions. Both systems are coordinated to carry out their functions and they control each other: the nervous system controls the production and secretion of hormones and some hormones can control the nervous system.
Both systems have, however, some relevant differences. The nervous system carries out its functions very quickly, in milliseconds. And it controls punctual or not very lasting actions. The endocrine system, on the other hand, carries out its functions more slowly, in seconds or even minutes. And it controls lasting actions, that can take minutes, such as the vasodilation promoted by some hormones, hours, such as the digestive process or even years, such as growth.
The endocrine system is the main regulator of the homeostasis and metabolism (both anabolism and catabolism). Its functionality is based on the secretion of chemical substances called hormones. They are produced and released by endocrine glands.