What are the best methods of administration? Smoking? Vaping? Edibles? As a doctor, I am always hesitant to recommend smoking, so if there are other options that work for you, that is preferred. The long term effects of smoking cannabis are not fully known but there is some level of risk to the lungs if you are smoking.
Low temperature vaping is a good option. This is a method that involves heating either concentrates or whole dried flower just enough to release the cannabinoids but not produce the harmful combustion products found in smoke. Vaping has generated some controversy due to severe lung damage that can develop. However, recently it has been shown that the vapes that caused lung damage were black market vape pens that used a Vitamin E oil base instead of pure distillates, like those found in dispensaries. Generally vaping is considered safe and a good option for dispensing low doses of cannabinoids.
Edibles are a great way to consume especially if you are medicating for insomnia and/or chronic pain. The high that is produced from edibles is different because the THC is metabolized by the liver and converted into 11-hydroxy-THC. This slightly different form is more potent and longer acting. Taking cannabis orally also takes much longer to feel the effect, which can lead to the classic ER visits with chief complaints of eating too many edibles. It is best to be cautious when starting out on edibles, avoid taking that second dose before the first one has kicked in and in some cases it can take up to 2 hours.