In a recent paper (American Journal of Acupuncture, 1994; 22(2): 145-157) we examined frontier areas of biological research related to informational and energetic features of the living state. Emerging relationships between the biophysical exploration of biological organization and the Oriental medicine paradigm were discussed. While the boundaries of this frontier Western research on biological systems are by no means drawn, bioelectromagnetics is now established as one of most visible and fruitful components. This paper examines the basic issues encompassing bioelectromagnetics research, including historical and theoretical facets. Bioelectromagnetics research is divided into three areas: 1) basic mechanisms of electromagnetic-biochemical interaction; 2) systemic properties of electromagnetic regulation; 3) interaction between organism and (electromagnetic) environment. The implications for Oriental medicine, particularly acupuncture, of each of these areas is discussed.