I've had varieties that have increased my heart rate and BP, measured with a cuff. Not sure if it was the variety itself, timing with my own personal chemistry, or something external like a contaminant. I was leaning towards suspected adrenal issues at the time.
You could try another variety or vendor. Might have better luck with something that leans toward the heavy end of the spectrum.
If you can rule out other factors like nutrition and hydration (were you properly fueled with enough fluids and electrolytes in your system? Slight dehydration/changes in electrolytes can cause palps, kava can easily dehydrate you fast), medications/supplements, set/setting, or other possible influences and the issue continues, you may try a little break from kava and try it another time. Sometimes what isn't working well for us now will have very different effects when the needs of our body change.